Thorny Seahorse

Hippocampus histrix

Thorny Seahorse

Named for the spiny ridges along its body, this seahorse hides among algae and seagrass on sheltered reefs and clings to sponges and sea squirts. Large adults may drift with floating debris, and the male broods the young in a pouch beneath his tail. It is listed as vulnerable.

Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Teleostei › Syngnathiformes › Syngnathidae › Hippocampus

Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 212239.

FAQ

How deep does the Thorny Seahorse live?
The Thorny Seahorse (Hippocampus histrix) is typically found at 0–82 m.
Is the Thorny Seahorse dangerous to divers?
The Thorny Seahorse is harmless to divers.
How big does the Thorny Seahorse get?
The Thorny Seahorse grows to about 17 cm.