zebra-snout seahorse

The Barbour's Seahorse (Hippocampus barbouri) is a small, delicately structured seahorse distinguished by its elongated snout, narrow body, and unique white markings. Growing up to 15 cm in length, this seahorse uses its prehensile tail to grip coral, seagrass, or mangrove roots in shallow coastal waters. Found primarily around Indonesia, it feeds on small crustaceans and plankton. This species is critically impacted by overfishing, habitat degradation, and collection for traditional medicine and the aquarium trade. Climate change further threatens its habitat by damaging coral reefs and seagrass beds essential to its survival. Conservation efforts to protect its habitat, regulate trade, and address climate change impacts are essential to preserve this distinctive seahorse.