Long-snouted seahorse

One of 2 seahorses found in UK seas, long snouted seahorses are recognisable by their longer snout and fleshy "mane".

Species information

Statistics

Length: 21cm

Conservation status

The long snouted seahorse is currently unlisted on the IUCN Red List due to deficient data (DD), but was previously listed as Vunerable (VU). In the UK, it is a Priority Species under the UK Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework and protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. They are a Feature of Conservation Importance for which Marine Conservation Zones can be designated.

When to see

January to December

About

Also known as the spiny seahorse, the long-snouted seahorse is recognisable by the fleshy mane on its neck and back. They live in shallow coastal waters and are pretty poor swimmers, relying on their prehensile tail to cling onto seaweed and seagrass to stop themselves being swept away. They don't have teeth and simply suck up their favourite prey of small shrimp and plankton. Seahorses are known to practice monogamy, though we no longer think that they mate for life. Seahorses are a type of fish and are related to pipefish and sea dragons.

How to identify

As their name suggests, long snouted seahorses have a longer snout than their short snouted seahorse cousins. Fleshy protuberances along its back give the impression of a horse's mane and its alternative name of spiny seahorse. Its angular body, framed by tubercles is usually a greenish-yellow.

Distribution

Along the south coast of England and Wales.

Habitats

Marine

Did you know?

Seahorses are the only animal with a true reversed pregnancy! The female transfers the eggs to the male who self fertilises them; he keeps them in his brood pouch, before giving birth to live young called fry.

Become a Friend of MCZs

How people can help

Never buy a seahorse as a pet, less than 1% of captured seahorses last longer than 6 weeks. Avoid buying any souvenirs with dried sea creatures such as seahorses, starfish or coral as many of these are now endangered species. If you see any shops selling these, please report it to illegaltrade@theseahorsetrust.org. Avoid any traditional medicines that include endangered or slow-growing species. If yachting, always use mooring balls or eco-moorings where they are available.

Our seas and coastline are in need of protection if we are to keep our marine wildlife healthy. The Wildlife Trusts are working with fishermen, researchers, politicians and local people towards a vision of 'Living Seas', where marine wildlife thrives.