Big-Belly Seahorse
Distribution
Australia and New Zealand
Diet
Carnivore
Habitat
Coastal waters
Latin Name
Hippocampus abdominalis
IUCN conservation status
Measuring between 18 and 35 centimeters in length, it is one of the largest known seahorse species!
Interesting informations
A Diet Based on Whatever Passes in Front of Its Nose
Generally motionless among the seaweed, the big-bellied seahorse feeds on small invertebrates such as shrimp and other tiny crustaceans. Completely camouflaged, it waits patiently for its prey to come close before sucking them in with its snout. Mostly nocturnal, it hunts primarily at night.
Perfect Camouflage: Its Greatest Defense
Its body is covered with spines that become finer with age. Some of these spines also have long filaments near the head. Its coloration generally ranges from yellow to brown, with gray, brown, or white spots. All these anatomical features, combined with its stillness, provide it with incredible camouflage.
A Seahorse That Doesn’t Ride Alone!
Its body is covered with spines that become finer as it ages. Some of these spines also have long filaments near the head. Its coloration typically ranges from yellow to brown, with gray, brown, or white spots. All these anatomical features, combined with its stillness, provide it with incredible camouflage.
Vulnerable to Overfishing and the Aquarium Trade
The big-bellied seahorse is found in the waters of southwestern Australia and all around New Zealand. The species is classified as vulnerable by the IUCN, mainly due to trade for home aquariums and its use in traditional Asian medicine. It can also be dried and sold as a tourist souvenir.
