Presence of the broad-nosed pipefish (Syngnathus typhle) in coastal waters of the Gulf of Gdańsk

Abstract

The broad-nosed pipefish (Syngnathus typhle) is a species considered threatened with extinction on the Polish Baltic coast. The presence of S. typhle in the Gulf of Gdańsk was investigated primarily by means of scuba diving, and the species was recorded at 12 of 20 sites, which were investigated. A total of 85 individuals were found. The highest numbers were observed near the mouth of the river Płutnica and near the pier in Sopot. Pipefish were found in bottom areas covered with green algae (Cladophora sp. and Enteromorpha sp.) and brown algae (Pilayella sp.), but not by vascular plants as was previously reported. Copyright© by Institute of Oceanography, University of Gdańsk.