Fin's Fish Guide
The Halfspined seahorse (Hippocampus semispinosus) is a fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The Halfspined seahorse is a seahorse (Syngnathidae) from shallow seagrass, weed and reef water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 8 cm and has an upright, armoured body with a horse-like head, a tubular snout and a prehensile tail with which it holds onto seagrass and coral. As a slow dweller it sucks up minute crustaceans. Remarkably the male broods the eggs in a pouch on the belly. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Halfspined seahorse?
The Halfspined seahorse is mainly brown.
Where does the Halfspined seahorse live?
The Halfspined seahorse is mostly found around stony or rocky ground.
How big does the Halfspined seahorse get?
The Halfspined seahorse grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Halfspined seahorse dangerous to humans?
No, the Halfspined 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 Halfspined seahorse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Halfspined seahorse is one of 12,519 species in the app.