Pygmy Seahorse

Pygmy Seahorse

Hippocampus bargibanti

Least Concern
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DESCRIPTION

The Pygmy Seahorse (Hippocampus bargibanti), is one of the smallest seahorse species, rarely exceeding 2.8 cm in length. It is a master of camouflage, perfectly mimicking the color and texture of the Muricella gorgonian corals it exclusively inhabits, making it incredibly difficult to spot. These seahorses feed on tiny planktonic organisms using their elongated snout.

Max Length 2.8 cm
Max Weight 0.5 g
Lifespan 1 - 2 years
Habitat Coastal zone and coral reef
Depth Range 10 - 60 m
Diet Planktivore
Activity Unknown
Social Behavior Aggregative
TOP DESTINATIONS

Featured destinations to spot Pygmy Seahorse

SIGHTING PROBABILITY
  • Unlikely
  • Likely
  • Very likely

Other destinations to spot Pygmy Seahorse

Range

Where Pygmy Seahorse has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Pygmy Seahorse

Where can you see the Pygmy Seahorse?

The Pygmy Seahorse can be seen at 12 dive destinations in Indonesia, Philippines, Malaysia, and Australia. The best spots include Anilao (Philippines), Lembeh Strait (Indonesia), Apo Reef (Philippines), Gili Islands (Indonesia), and Kapalai (Malaysia).

What is the best time to see the Pygmy Seahorse?

Sightings of the Pygmy Seahorse peak at different times depending on the destination: Anilao from March to October, Lembeh Strait from April to October, Kapalai from May to October, and Komodo from May to October.

Can you see the Pygmy Seahorse all year round?

Yes. At Gili Islands, the Pygmy Seahorse is seen all year round.

Where can you see the Pygmy Seahorse in Indonesia?

In Indonesia, you can see the Pygmy Seahorse at Lembeh Strait, Gili Islands, Komodo, Nusa Penida, and Raja Ampat.

Where can you see the Pygmy Seahorse in Philippines?

In Philippines, you can see the Pygmy Seahorse at Anilao, Apo Reef, Malapascua, and Tubbataha Reefs.

Where can you see the Pygmy Seahorse in Malaysia?

In Malaysia, you can see the Pygmy Seahorse at Kapalai and Mabul.

How big does the Pygmy Seahorse get?

The Pygmy Seahorse can reach up to 2.8 cm in length and 0.5 g in weight.

What habitat does the Pygmy Seahorse live in?

The Pygmy Seahorse is found in these habitats: coastal zone and coral reef.

How deep does the Pygmy Seahorse live?

The Pygmy Seahorse lives between 10 and 60 m deep.

What does the Pygmy Seahorse eat?

Lives on plankton, picking drifting animals and larvae out of the water column.

How long does the Pygmy Seahorse live?

The Pygmy Seahorse lives 1 to 2 years.

What is the conservation status of the Pygmy Seahorse?

The Pygmy Seahorse is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Every answer is built from the conditions and sightings data we keep for Pygmy Seahorse. Spotted something that looks off?

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