Fin's Fish Guide
The Giant Seahorse (Hippocampus ingens) is a saltwater fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 30 cm.
Eastern Pacific, from California to Peru, including the Galapagos Islands.
Description
The Pacific seahorse is the largest seahorse of the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 30 cm and has the characteristic upright body shape with a tubular snout and a prehensile tail. It lives reef-associated down to about 60 m and clings to gorgonians and black coral, where it hunts small zooplankton and small crustaceans while well camouflaged. Its colour is variable and can adapt to the surroundings. Like all seahorses the male broods the young for about two weeks in a pouch. The species is considered Vulnerable (VU) and is listed under CITES Appendix II.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Giant Seahorse?
The Giant Seahorse has an irregular in shape body, is mainly multicoloured and shows a plain pattern. Largest seahorse of the eastern Pacific; the male carries the young in a pouch; can change colour.
Where does the Giant Seahorse live?
The Giant Seahorse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Pacific, from California to Peru, including the Galapagos Islands.
How big does the Giant Seahorse get?
The Giant Seahorse grows to a maximum of about 30 cm.
Is the Giant Seahorse dangerous to humans?
No, the Giant Seahorse is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Giant Seahorse edible?
The Giant 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 Giant Seahorse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Giant Seahorse is one of 12,519 species in the app.