Fin's Fish Guide
The Lined seahorse (Hippocampus erectus) is a saltwater fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 19 cm.
Western Atlantic from Canada to Argentina, among seagrass, seaweeds and biofilm of shallow coastal water.
Description
The lined seahorse is a striking fish of the family Syngnathidae reaching about 19 cm. The upright body is covered with ringed bony plates, ends in a prehensile tail and bears fine white lines on head and neck; colour ranges from brown and yellow to nearly black. With its tube-shaped snout it sucks in plankton and small crustaceans. The species lives among seagrass, weed and growth of shallow coastal water along the western Atlantic coast. As in all seahorses the male carries the eggs in a pouch and 'gives birth' to live young. The species is listed as Vulnerable (VU) on the Red List and is covered by CITES; bycatch, habitat loss and trade put it under pressure.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Lined seahorse?
The Lined seahorse has an irregular in shape body, is mainly brown and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Seahorse with ringed armour plates, a prehensile tail and fine white lines on the head and neck; the male carries the eggs in a pouch.
Where does the Lined seahorse live?
The Lined seahorse lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Western Atlantic from Canada to Argentina, among seagrass, seaweeds and biofilm of shallow coastal water.
How big does the Lined seahorse get?
The Lined seahorse grows to a maximum of about 19 cm.
Is the Lined seahorse dangerous to humans?
No, the Lined seahorse is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Lined seahorse edible?
The Lined 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 Lined seahorse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Lined seahorse is one of 12,519 species in the app.