Common name: Cape seahorse

General information

The Knysna Seahorse, scientifically known as Hippocampus capensis, is a fascinating and delicate species endemic to South Africa. It is one of the few seahorse species that inhabit freshwater environments, although it primarily resides in brackish waters. This small seahorse is characterized by its unique coloration, which can range from brown to green, often with small white dots or splotches that provide excellent camouflage among aquatic vegetation.

Care

The Knysna Seahorse is a challenging species to keep in home aquariums due to its specific habitat requirements and feeding habits. They require a mature, stable, and well-established aquarium with plenty of live macroalgae or seagrass mimics where they can anchor themselves with their prehensile tails. Seahorses are not strong swimmers; therefore, a low-flow environment is essential to prevent exhaustion. They feed on live foods such as brine shrimp, copepods, and other small crustaceans, necessitating a consistent supply of live feed or a well-established refugium.

Reproduction

Like other seahorses, the Knysna Seahorse exhibits a unique reproductive behavior where the male carries the fertilized eggs in a specialized brood pouch until they hatch. The male's pregnancy lasts about 2 to 3 weeks, after which he gives birth to fully formed miniature seahorses. Breeding them in captivity is complex and requires a dedicated setup to raise the fry, which have very specific feeding and care requirements.

Habitat

The natural habitat of the Knysna Seahorse is limited to three estuaries in South Africa: the Knysna, Swartvlei, and Keurbooms estuaries. They are typically found among eelgrass beds and submerged vegetation at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 8 meters deep. Due to their limited distribution and habitat loss, they are considered an endangered species and are protected under South African law.