Fin's Fish Guide
The Winged seahorse (Hippocampus alatus) is a fish of the family Syngnathidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Description
The Winged seahorse is a seahorse (Syngnathidae) from coastal waters with seagrass, weed and coral of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 14 cm and has an upright body armoured with bony rings, a horse-like head, a tubular snout and a prehensile tail with which it grips on. Swimming with a fast-fluttering dorsal fin it sucks in small zooplankton. The male carries the eggs in a brood pouch. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Winged seahorse?
The Winged seahorse is mainly brown.
Where does the Winged seahorse live?
The Winged seahorse is mostly found around stony or rocky ground.
How big does the Winged seahorse get?
The Winged seahorse grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Winged seahorse dangerous to humans?
No, the Winged 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
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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 Winged seahorse?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Winged seahorse is one of 12,519 species in the app.