Common name: Short-snouted Seahorse
General Information
The Short-snouted Seahorse, scientifically known as Hippocampus hippocampus, is a captivating species often sought after by aquarists for its unique appearance and charming behavior. Characterized by its short snout and prehensile tail, this seahorse is a fascinating addition to a marine aquarium. Its body is adorned with bony plates and small, wing-like pectoral fins that aid in its graceful swimming.
Seahorses hold a special place in the hearts of hobbyists and conservationists alike. Not only do they offer aesthetic appeal with their intricate body designs and gentle movements, but they also play a role in educational and conservation efforts, highlighting the importance of marine biodiversity.
Details
- Estimated price
- Moderate
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 100 liter (26 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 18 to 24 °C (64 to 75 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8 to 8.5
- Average size
- 15 cm (6″)
- Care level
- Moderate to difficult
- Diet
- Carnivore Feeds on small crustaceans and plankton
- Social
- Pair Best kept in pairs or small groups to reduce stress
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- Yes
- Trade regulationsSource: Species+
- CITES Appendix II / EU Annex B (Hippocampus spp.)
- Conservation statusSource: IUCN Red List
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPipefishesSyngnathiformes
- FamilyPipefishesSyngnathidae
- GenusSeahorseHippocampus
- SpeciesShort-snouted SeahorseHippocampus hippocampus (Linnaeus, 1758)
- SynonymsGasterosteus equus Cabrera, Pérez & Haenseler, 1817Hippocampus antiquorum Leach, 1814Hippocampus antiquus Risso, 1827Hippocampus brevirostris Schinz, 1822Hippocampus europaeus Ginsburg, 1933Hippocampus heptagonus Rafinesque, 1810Hippocampus pentagonus Rafinesque, 1810Hippocampus vulgaris Cloquet, 1821Hyppocampus brevirostris Schinz, 1822Syngnathus hippocampus Linnaeus, 1758
- Source: GBIF | Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Care
Caring for the Short-snouted Seahorse requires attention to detail, as they thrive best in species-specific tanks or with very peaceful tank mates. They prefer aquariums that mimic their natural habitats, with plenty of vertical structures for hitching. Seahorses are sensitive to water quality, so maintaining stable parameters is crucial.
Diet and Feeding
In the wild, Hippocampus hippocampus feeds on small crustaceans and plankton. In captivity, they should be provided with a diet of live or frozen foods such as mysis shrimp. Feeding should be done multiple times a day to ensure they receive adequate nutrition, as seahorses have a relatively fast metabolism.
Behavior and Compatibility
Seahorses are known for their peaceful and docile nature. They are not aggressive and can be kept in pairs or small groups. However, they should not be housed with aggressive or fast-moving species that may outcompete them for food.
Reproduction
The reproductive behavior of seahorses is one of their most intriguing features. Males carry the fertilized eggs in a specialized brood pouch until they hatch, giving birth to fully formed miniature seahorses. This unique role reversal makes them a subject of interest in breeding programs.
Health and Common Issues
Seahorses can live up to 4-6 years in captivity with proper care. They are susceptible to stress and water quality issues, which can lead to common ailments such as bacterial infections. Regular monitoring and prompt treatment are essential to maintain their health.
Habitat
The Short-snouted Seahorse is found in shallow coastal waters, particularly around seagrass beds and estuaries in the Northeast Atlantic and Mediterranean Sea. They prefer calm, sheltered environments where they can anchor themselves using their tails.