Fin's Fish Guide
The Common seahorse (Hippocampus kuda) is a brackish-water fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Description
The spotted seahorse is a seahorse of the family Syngnathidae widely distributed across the Indo-Pacific. The species reaches about 30 cm and has an upright, ringed body without a caudal fin; instead it grips seagrass and algae with its prehensile tail. The colour is variable, from yellow to brown or black, often with dark spots. The animal feeds on drifting zooplankton sucked up with its tubular snout. Males carry the eggs in a brood pouch. The species is vulnerable through harvesting for the aquarium trade and traditional Chinese medicine.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Common seahorse?
The Common seahorse has an irregular in shape body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a spots pattern. Prehensile tail without a caudal fin; the male carries the eggs in a brood pouch; heavily fished for traditional Chinese medicine.
Where does the Common seahorse live?
The Common seahorse lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific, from East Africa and the Red Sea to the western Pacific.
How big does the Common seahorse get?
The Common seahorse grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Common seahorse dangerous to humans?
No, the Common seahorse is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Common seahorse edible?
Yes, the Common seahorse is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Common seahorse and live in the same waters.
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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 Common seahorse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Common seahorse is one of 12,519 species in the app.