Fin's Fish Guide
The Hedgehog seahorse (Hippocampus spinosissimus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Asia: Australia, Myanmar, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei and others
Description
The hedgehog seahorse is a seahorse (Syngnathidae) from coastal waters with seagrass, weed and coral of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 17 cm and has an upright body armoured with bony rings densely set with sharp spines, a horse-like head and a prehensile tail. Swimming with a fast-fluttering dorsal fin it sucks in small zooplankton. The male carries the eggs in a brood pouch. Through fishing the species is vulnerable. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Hedgehog seahorse?
The Hedgehog seahorse has an irregular in shape body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Hedgehog seahorse live?
The Hedgehog seahorse lives in brackish water and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Asia: Australia, Myanmar, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei and others
How big does the Hedgehog seahorse get?
The Hedgehog seahorse grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the Hedgehog seahorse dangerous to humans?
No, the Hedgehog 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.
Is the Hedgehog seahorse edible?
Yes, the Hedgehog seahorse is commonly 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 Hedgehog seahorse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Hedgehog seahorse is one of 12,519 species in the app.