also known as the red banded pipefish or red-banded pipehorse, belongs to the family Syngnathidae, which includes seahorses and pipefish. They are found in the Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea, Indian Ocean, and Western Pacific.

The shorttailed pipefish is a relatively small species, with the average length ranging from 5 to 10 centimeters. They have an elongated and slender body shape, similar to other pipefish, with a small head and mouth at the end of a long snout. The tail is prehensile, meaning they can use it to grasp onto objects, and it is relatively short compared to other species of pipefish.

These pipefish are typically a light brown or grayish color with a red band running along the length of their body. Some individuals may have additional red or yellow markings, but they generally have a simple color pattern. The body is covered in small, bony plates that provide protection.

Shorttailed pipefish are known to form monogamous pairs and mate for life. During courtship, the male will display a series of complex behaviors to attract a female, including swimming in circles and vibrating his body. The female will then lay her eggs on the underside of the male's tail, where he will fertilize them and carry them until they hatch.

These pipefish are primarily found in seagrass beds and other shallow, sheltered environments. They are a popular species among aquarium enthusiasts due to their unique appearance and interesting behavior. However, they can be challenging to keep in captivity as they require specialized care, including live food and a well-maintained aquarium environment.

In summary, the shorttailed pipefish is a small, slender species of pipefish found in the Indo-Pacific region. They have a simple color pattern with a red band running along their body, and their tail is prehensile. They form monogamous pairs and mate for life, with the male carrying and protecting the eggs until they hatch. They primarily inhabit seagrass beds and other shallow, sheltered environments and can be challenging to keep in captivity.