Urocampus

Urocampus is a genus of pipefishes belonging to the family Syngnathidae. These small, slender fish are found in marine environments in the Indo-Pacific region. Urocampus pipefishes are characterized by their elongated bodies, bony rings covering their body, and a small, tubular mouth. They are typically found in shallow coastal waters, often amongst seagrass beds or coral reefs.

Like other pipefishes, Urocampus species exhibit male parental care. The female deposits her eggs onto the male's ventral surface, which may or may not have a brood pouch, depending on the species. The male then fertilizes the eggs and carries them until they hatch. He provides oxygen and protection to the developing embryos.

Currently recognized species within the Urocampus genus include:

• Urocampus carinirostris (Japanese pipefish)
• Urocampus nanus (Barrens pipefish)