Fin's Fish Guide
The Manyspine seahorse (Hippocampus multispinus) is a fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The Manyspine seahorse is a seahorse (Syngnathidae) from shallow seagrass, weed and reef water of the waters around northern Australia. 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 Manyspine seahorse?
The Manyspine seahorse is mainly brown.
Where does the Manyspine seahorse live?
The Manyspine seahorse is mostly found around stony or rocky ground.
How big does the Manyspine seahorse get?
The Manyspine seahorse grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Manyspine seahorse dangerous to humans?
No, the Manyspine 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.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Manyspine seahorse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Manyspine seahorse is one of 12,519 species in the app.
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 Manyspine seahorse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Manyspine seahorse is one of 12,519 species in the app.