Common name: Zebra seahorse

General information

The Zebra Seahorse, scientifically known as Hippocampus zebra, is a striking and rare species of seahorse that is highly sought after by marine aquarium enthusiasts. This species is named for its distinctive zebra-like stripes, which run vertically along its body. The Zebra Seahorse is a small, slow-moving fish that relies on its camouflage and stealth to avoid predators.

Care

Zebra Seahorses require a specialized aquarium setup that mimics their natural environment. They need a peaceful tank with plenty of hitching posts, such as soft corals or macroalgae, where they can anchor themselves with their prehensile tails. These seahorses do best in a species-specific tank or with other non-aggressive tank mates. They require live or frozen foods, such as brine shrimp or mysis, and need to be fed multiple times a day due to their inefficient digestive systems.

Reproduction

Like all seahorses, the Zebra Seahorse exhibits a unique reproductive behavior where the male carries the fertilized eggs in a brood pouch until they hatch. The male Zebra Seahorse is responsible for birthing the young, which are miniature replicas of the adults. Breeding Zebra Seahorses in captivity can be challenging but rewarding for experienced aquarists.

Habitat

The Zebra Seahorse is native to the coastal waters of northern Australia, where it inhabits shallow, tropical reefs and seagrass beds. They are often found clinging to gorgonians or other structures in the water column, where they blend in with their surroundings to avoid detection by predators.