Fin's Fish Guide
The Dwarf seahorse (Hippocampus zosterae) is a saltwater fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Description
The dwarf seahorse is one of the smallest seahorses (Syngnathidae) and occurs in the western Atlantic and the Gulf of Mexico. The species grows to only a few centimetres and has the typical upright seahorse body with a prehensile tail; the colour varies from brown to yellow or greenish, often with growth. It lives on shallow seagrass flats, especially among Zostera, and is sometimes found in floating vegetation. With its tubular snout it sucks up small crustaceans. The male carries the eggs in a pouch. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Dwarf seahorse?
The Dwarf seahorse has an irregular in shape body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. One of the smallest seahorses; lives among Zostera seagrass, the male carries the eggs in a pouch.
Where does the Dwarf seahorse live?
The Dwarf seahorse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico; shallow seagrass flats.
How big does the Dwarf seahorse get?
The Dwarf seahorse grows to a maximum of about 5 cm.
Is the Dwarf seahorse dangerous to humans?
No, the Dwarf seahorse is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Dwarf seahorse edible?
The Dwarf seahorse is not usually eaten.
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 Dwarf seahorse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Dwarf seahorse is one of 12,519 species in the app.