Common name: Maned seahorse

General information

The Long-snouted Seahorse, scientifically known as Hippocampus guttulatus, is a captivating species that enchants aquarists with its unique appearance and behaviors. This species is characterized by its elongated snout and the presence of spiny appendages or cirri along its back, which provide camouflage among seagrass and macroalgae. They are relatively small, reaching up to 15 centimeters in length, and exhibit a range of colors from yellow to green, often with dark spots.

Care

Long-snouted Seahorses require a specialized aquarium setup that mimics their natural environment. They thrive in a calm, well-established tank with plenty of hitching posts such as seagrass or artificial equivalents. These seahorses are not strong swimmers and prefer areas with low flow. They feed on live foods like mysis shrimp and brine shrimp, and it's crucial to maintain pristine water conditions as they are sensitive to changes and pollutants.

Reproduction

This species is ovoviviparous, with males carrying the fertilized eggs in a brood pouch until they hatch. Courtship is an intricate dance that strengthens the pair's bond. Breeding in captivity can be challenging but rewarding, with the need for a separate rearing tank for the fry, which initially feed on copepods and other tiny live foods.

Habitat

Hippocampus guttulatus is found in the shallow coastal waters of the northeast Atlantic, from the United Kingdom and the Netherlands to the Mediterranean Sea and the coast of Africa. They are typically associated with seagrass beds, where they use their prehensile tails to anchor themselves and blend in with their surroundings to avoid predators.