Aulorhynchus flavidus

fish

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Last updated

June 18, 2026

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Aulorhynchus flavidus is a species of fish belonging to the family Aulorhynchidae, commonly known as tubesnouts. These marine fish are found in the coastal regions of the northern Pacific Ocean. Aulorhynchus flavidus is characterized by its extended snout and is typically found among giant kelp and eelgrass beds along the North American coast, from Alaska to the Baja Peninsula of Mexico.1

This species, which can reach about 18 cm (7 inches) in length, builds nests from kelp fronds. After the female deposits her eggs, they adhere to these fronds. Tubesnouts feed on small, planktonic crustaceans and fish larvae. They are sometimes classified within the stickleback family, Gasterosteidae.1

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tubesnout
Both species—Aulorhynchus flavidus and Aulichthys japonicus—are marine and restricted to coastal regions of the northern Pacific Ocean. Taxonomically, they are sometimes placed in the stickleback family, Gasterosteidae. Tubesnouts are named for their extended snouts.
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Both species—Aulorhynchus flavidus and Aulichthys japonicus—are marine and restricted to coastal regions of the northern Pacific Ocean. Taxonomically, they are sometimes placed in the stickleback family, Gasterosteidae. Tubesnouts are named for their extended snouts.
Read More