Fin's Fish Guide
The Big-bellied seahorse (Hippocampus abdominalis) is a brackish-water fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 35 cm.
Description
The Big-bellied seahorse is a seahorse (Syngnathidae) from coastal waters of southeastern Australia and New Zealand. The species grows to about 35 cm and has an upright body armoured in bony rings with a horse-like head, a prehensile tail and a tubular snout. It is one of the largest seahorses, with a conspicuously rounded belly and a yellow-brown, mottled body. It swims slowly and clings with its tail to weed, coral or seagrass and sucks in minute crustaceans. The male carries the eggs in a pouch. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Big-bellied seahorse?
The Big-bellied seahorse has an irregular in shape body and is mainly yellow-gold.
Where does the Big-bellied seahorse live?
The Big-bellied seahorse lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Oceania: Australia, New Zealand
How big does the Big-bellied seahorse get?
The Big-bellied seahorse grows to a maximum of about 35 cm. On average the species is around 18 cm.
Is the Big-bellied seahorse dangerous to humans?
No, the Big-bellied seahorse is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hippocampus
More from the family Syngnathidae
Want the complete picture on the Big-bellied seahorse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Big-bellied seahorse is one of 12,519 species in the app.