Common name: Tiger Tail Seahorse

Scientific name: Hippocampus comes Cantor, 1849
Beautiful Tiger Tail Seahorse on a tropical coral reef in ThailandPair of yellow Tiger Tail Seahorses on a dark tropical coral reef
Beautiful, yellow Tiger Tail seahorse on a tropical coral reefBeautiful, yellow Tiger Tail seahorse on a tropical coral reef

General Information

The Tiger Tail Seahorse, scientifically known as Hippocampus comes, is a captivating species popular among marine enthusiasts for its distinctive appearance and fascinating behaviors. Recognized by its striking yellow and black banded pattern, this seahorse is a true spectacle in any aquarium setting. Its prehensile tail, reminiscent of a tiger's striped tail, is not just for show but serves as a functional tool for anchoring to sea grasses and corals.

Seahorses, including the Tiger Tail, have captured the imagination of hobbyists due to their unique reproductive roles, where males carry the young. Their upright swimming posture and horse-like head make them a subject of intrigue and admiration.

Details

Estimated price
Moderate
Recommended minimum tank volume
100 liter (26 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
Temperature
24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
Acidity
pH 8 to 8.5
Average size
20 cm (8″)
Care level
Moderate to difficult
Diet
Carnivore Feeds on mysis and brine shrimp, requiring frequent meals
Social
Pair Best kept in pairs to mimic natural social structure
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Peaceful Generally shy and peaceful, ideal for calm tank setups
Captive bred
Yes
CITES
Appendix II
IUCN Red List
EX
EW
CR
EN
VU
NT
LC

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Chordates
    Chordata
  3. Class
    Ray-finned Fishes
    Actinopterygii
  4. Order
    Pipefishes
    Syngnathiformes
  5. Family
    Pipefishes
    Syngnathidae
  6. Genus
    Seahorse
    Hippocampus
  7. Species
    Tiger Tail Seahorse
    Hippocampus comes Cantor, 1849
  8. Source: GBIF | Global Biodiversity Information Facility

Care

Caring for the Tiger Tail Seahorse requires a dedicated setup that mimics its natural reef environment. They thrive in aquariums with plenty of vertical space, allowing them to swim upright and latch onto coral branches or artificial structures. These seahorses prefer peaceful tank mates and should be housed with species that won't outcompete them for food.

Diet and Feeding

Tiger Tail Seahorses are carnivorous, primarily feeding on small crustaceans in the wild. In captivity, they should be offered a diet of live or frozen mysis shrimp and brine shrimp. Regular feeding is crucial as they have a high metabolism and require frequent meals.

Behavior and Compatibility

Tiger Tail Seahorses are peaceful and can be quite shy. They are best kept in species-specific tanks or with other non-aggressive species. Due to their slow swimming nature, they are at risk of being outcompeted for food by more agile fish.

Reproduction

The reproductive process of the Tiger Tail Seahorse is a fascinating spectacle. Males have a brood pouch where females deposit eggs. The male then fertilizes the eggs internally and carries them until they hatch. This unique role reversal is a highlight for many seahorse enthusiasts.

Health and Common Issues

Seahorses are generally susceptible to stress and water quality issues. Maintaining pristine water conditions and avoiding sudden changes in the environment are essential for their health. They are prone to ailments such as bacterial infections and gas bubble disease, which require prompt attention.

Habitat

The Tiger Tail Seahorse is native to the Indo-Pacific region, including areas such as the Philippines, Malaysia, and Thailand. They inhabit coastal waters, often found in seagrass beds and coral reefs where they can camouflage and find ample food sources.

Conservation Status

Currently listed under CITES Appendix II, the Tiger Tail Seahorse is not directly threatened with extinction but its trade is monitored to ensure sustainable practices. Conservation efforts focus on habitat protection and sustainable harvesting to prevent population declines.