Pronunciation: [sˈiː nˈiːdə͡l] (IPA) 
The word "Sea needle" is spelled as /si: ˈniːd(ə)l/. The "s" sound is represented by the letter "s" and the "ee" sound is represented by the letters "ea". The "n" sound is represented by the letter "n" and "ee" is again represented by the letters "ee". The "d" sound is represented by the letter "d" and "əl" is represented by the letter "l". The word refers to a long, thin fish with a pointed snout, found in the sea.
Sea needle refers to a marine creature, specifically a type of fish, belonging to the family Syngnathidae. It is characterized by its long, slender, and needle-like body shape, which aids in its efficient movement through water. The term "sea needle" is commonly used to describe several species within this family.
These fish have a unique reproductive behavior, where the male sea needle nurtures the eggs until they hatch. The male possesses a brood pouch, located on the ventral side of its body, in which the female deposits her eggs during mating. The male sea needle then incubates the eggs until they are ready to hatch, providing them with nutrients and oxygen. This method of parental care is an exceptional adaptation to life in the ocean.
Sea needles are often found in shallow coastal waters, estuaries, and coral reefs, where they display remarkable camouflage thanks to their elongated bodies and colors that blend with their surroundings. Their snout is elongated into a tube-like structure, which they use to prey upon small organisms like crustaceans and tiny fish by sucking them into their mouths.
Due to their delicate structure and slow movements, sea needles are vulnerable to habitat destruction, pollution, and overfishing. Conservation efforts are essential to protect these unique creatures and maintain their vital role in marine ecosystems. Their intriguing appearance and reproductive behavior make them a subject of interest for scientific research and a fascinating addition to the diversity of marine life.
• The garfish.
• A fish having a slender body, long pointed jaws, and a forked tail; the garfish.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
