Common name: spotted seahorse

General information

The Reunion Seahorse, scientifically known as Hippocampus borboniensis, is a captivating species of seahorse found in the Western Indian Ocean. It is named after the island of R\u00e9union, one of its native habitats. This species is characterized by its slender body, distinctive coronet, and the ability to change color to blend with its surroundings, a trait common among seahorses.

Seahorses are unique among fish for their upright, equine-like posture, and the Reunion Seahorse is no exception. They have a prehensile tail that allows them to anchor to seagrasses or corals, and they swim in an upright position using their dorsal fin.

Care

Reunion Seahorses require a specialized aquarium setup that mimics their natural environment. They thrive in a peaceful tank with plenty of hitching posts, such as soft corals or macroalgae, where they can anchor themselves. Seahorses are not strong swimmers, so a gentle water flow is essential to prevent exhaustion.

Their diet consists mainly of live foods, such as brine shrimp or copepods. It's important to feed them multiple times a day due to their inefficient digestive systems. Seahorses have no stomach, so food passes through their digestive systems quickly.

Reproduction

Like all seahorses, the Reunion Seahorse exhibits fascinating reproductive behavior. The males are the ones who become pregnant, carrying the eggs in a specialized brood pouch until they hatch. Courtship involves an intricate dance, and the pair often bonds for life.

Habitat

The Reunion Seahorse is typically found in shallow coastal waters, among seagrasses, mangroves, and coral reefs. They prefer habitats with calm waters where they can easily catch prey and avoid strong currents.