Common name: Short-snouted Seahorse

Scientific name: Hippocampus hippocampus (Linnaeus, 1758)
Short-snouted Seahorse (Hippocampus hippocampus) on the seabedShort-snouted Seahorse (Hippocampus hippocampus). It is endemic to the Mediterranean Sea and parts of the North Atlantic, Italy, Canary Islands
Short-snouted Seahorse (Hippocampus hippocampus)Short-snouted Seahorse (Hippocampus hippocampus)

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
CITES
Appendix II

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
    Short-snouted Seahorse
    Hippocampus hippocampus (Linnaeus, 1758)
  8. Synonyms
    Gasterosteus equus Cabrera, Pérez & Haenseler, 1817
    Hippocampus antiquorum Leach, 1814
    Hippocampus antiquus Risso, 1827
    Hippocampus brevirostris Schinz, 1822
    Hippocampus europaeus Ginsburg, 1933
    Hippocampus heptagonus Rafinesque, 1810
    Hippocampus pentagonus Rafinesque, 1810
    Hippocampus vulgaris Cloquet, 1821
    Hyppocampus brevirostris Schinz, 1822
    Syngnathus hippocampus Linnaeus, 1758
  9. 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.