The Coleman's pygmy seahorse (Hippocampus colemani) is a saltwater fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 3 cm.
Description
The Coleman's pygmy seahorse is a seahorse (Syngnathidae) from the southwest Pacific. The species grows to about 2.7 cm and has an upright body armoured in bony rings with a horse-like head, a prehensile tail and a tubular snout. This tiny seahorse lives hidden among seagrass and algae on shallow sand flats. 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 Coleman's pygmy seahorse?
The Coleman's pygmy seahorse has an irregular in shape body and is mainly yellow-gold.
Where does the Coleman's pygmy seahorse live?
The Coleman's pygmy seahorse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Oceania: Australia, Lord Howe I.
How big does the Coleman's pygmy seahorse get?
The Coleman's pygmy seahorse grows to a maximum of about 3 cm.
Is the Coleman's pygmy seahorse dangerous to humans?
No, the Coleman's pygmy 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.
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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 Coleman's pygmy seahorse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Coleman's pygmy seahorse is one of 12,519 species in the app.