also known as the Yellowbanded Razorfish or the Yellowbanded Seamoth, is a small, colorful, and intriguing fish found in tropical and subtropical waters of the Western Pacific Ocean. This species belongs to the family Syngnathidae, which also includes seahorses, seadragons, and pipefish.

Yellowbanded Pipefish are generally small, ranging from 6 to 10 centimeters in length. Their overall shape and features are similar to other members of the Syngnathidae family, with a long, slender body and a tubular snout. The snout has two dark stripes, which are a distinguishing feature of this species. They have a series of bony plates along their body, which provide protection. Their pectoral fins are small, and they lack a caudal fin, instead having a small dorsal fin located near the end of their body.

The body coloration of Yellowbanded Pipefish is highly variable and can change depending on their environment. They are typically yellowish-orange in color, with darker vertical bands running along their body. The bands are usually a deep brown or black and are thicker than the pale bands. This coloration helps them blend into their surroundings, making them less visible to predators.

Yellowbanded Pipefish are usually found in shallow waters, close to the seafloor, among coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove roots. They are slow-moving and rely on camouflage and their ability to mimic the movements of floating debris to avoid detection by predators. They are not social fish and are usually seen alone or in small groups.

The Yellowbanded Pipefish is a carnivorous species that feeds on small crustaceans and zooplankton. They use their long snout to suck in prey, which they then consume whole. They are capable of moving their snout in any direction, allowing them to capture prey from almost any angle. They are preyed upon by larger fish, including barracudas and groupers.

In conclusion, the Yellowbanded Pipefish is a fascinating and colorful fish with unique physical features and behaviors. Their body coloration and ability to blend in with their environment make them a challenging species to spot underwater. Their snout's flexibility and two dark stripes are distinguishing features that make them easily recognizable among other pipefish species. As with many small fish, they play a crucial role in the ecosystem as prey for larger fish and as a predator of small crustaceans and zooplankton.