SeahorsesAshley Schobert

ClassificationKingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: OsteichthyesOrder: SygnathiformesFamily: SyngnathidaeGenus: HippocampusPicture: Pygmy Seahorsehttp://www.arkive.org/pygmy-seahorse/hippocampus-bargibanti/video-10.html

DimensionsLength: 2-14 inchesHeight: 6 inchesWeight: 7 ounces-1 poundColors & Markings: Light tones(White, yellow, tan), spotsOther: Color and markings vary

http://www.arkive.org/dwarf-seahorse/hippocampus-zosterae/video-00.html

HabitatPart of World: Caribbean region, Temperate or Tropical watersEnvironment: Shallow waters with abundantvegetation

DietHerbivore, carnivore, or omnivore:CarnivoreMeat: Plankton, fish larvae, and small crustaceans

Family LifeNumber Born: 8-2000Gestation: 10 days-6 weeksCare of: Not taken care of due to drifting away after birthWhen Born: Breed in summer, re-mate within hours of giving birthThe male seahorse is pregnant after female pumps eggs into the males stomachSeahorses are NOT mammalshttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BPlnqckOPdY

ShelterShelter: Seaweed or tall sea grasses,also may hide on the ocean floorPicture: Leafy Sea Dragon

Social BehaviorSocial Behavior: Does not live in a group but stays with mateTemperament: Peaceful, relaxedHabits: Cling to seaweed, swim in vertical position

DefensesDefenses: Camouflage, some can change colorAcquiring Food: Suction feeding-Bones and muscles creating suction forceLife Span: 1-5 years

HistoryWhen did your mammal first appear?According to fossils, about three million years ago

Is your mammal endangered?Not officially but populations are in trouble

Relationship to Humans: Will swim away if approached by humans

Sourceshttp://www.seaworld.orghttp://www.wikipedia.comhttp://www.biodavidson.eduhttp://www.aquarium.orghttp://www.wikianswers.comhttp://www.gma.orghttp://www.montereybayaquarium.orghttp://www.seahorsesource.com