Pipefish and ghost pipefish are not one in the same group. Pipefish are easily maintained in captivity with a healty mature reef tank.
Over the decades I have tried the ghost pipefish numerous times. And with live brine, live black worms, live mysis, frozen anything, fresh seafood --- I have never gotten them to make it more than about 10 days in captivity.
On the other hand I have kept Blue Striped Pipefish and Janss for years and years. And had lots of success with dragon faced pipe fish - althought it seems their lifespan is not as long as the Janns.
So I have the right environment to keep pipefish happy and healthy long term, and yet have had zero success with the Ghost Pipes. Yeah
Dave B