The seahorse is a species of bony fish that has some unique characteristics.

They live in shallow, tropical or temperate waters, found in estuarine environments, reefs, bays and mangroves.

Fish that have an elongated head, very similar to a horse, and eyes that move independently. 

The mouth is tubular and has no teeth, which is why this fish feeds by suction.

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Generally, the seahorse waits for a small animal to pass by to feed.

Among the creatures that make up their diet, we can highlight small shrimp and beach fleas.

They have a small and very resistant body, formed by a series of bony rings, and measures around 15 cm to 18 cm.

They have fins that allow them to swim and are active during the day, despite their limited mobility. Their dorsal fins are used for propulsion.

They have a prehensile tail, which is often used to grip the substrate.

A very interesting characteristic of theirs is their ability to change color, just like chameleons. This helps protect them from predators (camouflage).

In addition to helping during reproduction, as they tend to intensify their color when they are in the reproductive season.

Seahorses are the monogamists of the ocean

Seahorses are monogamous, which ends up interfering with the reproductive rate when one member of the couple is removed.

They have the striking characteristic that the male is responsible for fathering the offspring.

The female seahorse transfers her oocytes into the male's brood pouch.

The estimated duration of pregnancy is between 9 and 69 days.

Each pregnancy produces more than 100 puppies, each measuring an average of 1 cm. Although small and fragile, the puppies are born completely independent.

The decrease in the number of seahorses 

They are animals that tend to have their species diminished, due to their widespread commercial exploitation and the degradation of the area in which they live.

These are animals sold to be placed in aquariums and for decorative purposes.

There is also the accidental capture of these fish in fishing gear, a factor that contributes to their decline.

Main curiosities about Seahorses.

They are as follows:

• They measure between 1.5 and 34 centimeters.
• The seahorse has a lifespan of around one to four years.
• There are a total of 47 species of seahorses. 
• They avoid predators by camouflaging themselves, blending into the color of underwater plants.
• They can eat up to 50 times a day.
• The males that give birth to the young.
• Some species are nocturnal and others are diurnal.
• They have a tail that can move and grab things.
• Although classified as bony fish, they do not have scales.
• The smallest species of seahorse is the Satomi Pygmy.
• The big-bellied seahorse species is the largest.
• Some species are already extinct.
• They have no stomach or teeth.
• Seahorses are now pets, but it is a challenge, as they require a lot of care and are quite expensive. 

The importance of preserving the species

There are biological, ecological and commercial reasons for conserving these animals.

They have reproductive characteristics that are not found in any other group of animals.

And they play an important role in the food web of marine and estuarine fauna.

They monitor some species of deep-sea animals.

Therefore, without seahorses, there would be an imbalance in these ecosystems.

Important Tips for Preserving the Marine Environment

• Throw masks, scarves, gloves and bags in the trash.
• Do not throw cigarette butts on the ground, they contaminate the soil and water.
• Use reusable containers and bottles.
• Reduce energy consumption.
• Consume fewer plastic products.
• Take better care of the beaches, avoiding throwing rubbish and removing rocks and coral.
• The oceans need help. According to UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization), if there are no changes, by 2100 half of marine species will be on the brink of extinction.
• To save the planet we need sustainable projects. 
• If everyone did their part and sought more information about what to do with recyclable waste, it would make a difference.
• In order for life to remain on earth, it is necessary to have balance.

Hippocampus Project

The Institute Hippocampus is a non-profit organization, active for over 25 years in the preservation of seahorses.

With support and partnerships, the institution is able to rescue species that are disappearing.

They monitor the estuaries of the Tatuoca and Massangana Rivers, Cocaia Island, located in Suape Bay in Pernambuco.

The recording of these animals in these locations demonstrates the team’s care for the project.

The work carried out by this institute restores the environment and promotes the propagation of the species.