Denise's pygmy seahorse

Denise's pygmy seahorse

Hippocampus denise

Least Concern
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DESCRIPTION

Denise's pygmy seahorse is a diminutive species, rarely exceeding 2.4 cm in length, renowned for its exceptional camouflage within gorgonian corals. Its body coloration, typically yellow or orange with subtle patterns, and textured skin allow it to perfectly mimic its host seafan's polyps and stems. These seahorses are specialized predators, feeding on tiny crustaceans and zooplankton, and are often found alone or in pairs clinging to their coral hosts.

Max Length 2.4 cm
Max Weight 0.5 g
Lifespan 1 - 2 years
Habitat Deep water and coral reef
Depth Range 7 - 102 m
Diet Carnivore
Activity Diurnal
Social Behavior In pairs
TOP DESTINATIONS

Featured destinations to spot Denise's pygmy seahorse

SIGHTING PROBABILITY
  • Unlikely
  • Likely
  • Very likely
Range

Where Denise's pygmy seahorse has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Denise's pygmy seahorse

Where can you see the Denise's pygmy seahorse?

The Denise's pygmy seahorse can be seen at 7 dive destinations in Indonesia, Philippines, and Malaysia. The best spots include Anilao (Philippines), Lembeh Strait (Indonesia), Mabul (Malaysia), Malapascua (Philippines), and Raja Ampat (Indonesia).

What is the best time to see the Denise's pygmy seahorse?

Sightings of the Denise's pygmy seahorse peak at different times depending on the destination: Anilao from March to October, Lembeh Strait from April to October, Mabul from April to October, and Kapalai from April to October.

Where can you see the Denise's pygmy seahorse in Indonesia?

In Indonesia, you can see the Denise's pygmy seahorse at Lembeh Strait, Raja Ampat, and Gili Islands.

Where can you see the Denise's pygmy seahorse in Philippines?

In Philippines, you can see the Denise's pygmy seahorse at Anilao and Malapascua.

Where can you see the Denise's pygmy seahorse in Malaysia?

In Malaysia, you can see the Denise's pygmy seahorse at Mabul and Kapalai.

How big does the Denise's pygmy seahorse get?

The Denise's pygmy seahorse can reach up to 2.4 cm in length and 0.5 g in weight.

What habitat does the Denise's pygmy seahorse live in?

The Denise's pygmy seahorse is found in these habitats: deep water and coral reef.

How deep does the Denise's pygmy seahorse live?

The Denise's pygmy seahorse lives between 7 and 102 m deep.

What does the Denise's pygmy seahorse eat?

Feeds on other animals, from fish to crustaceans or molluscs depending on the species.

When is the Denise's pygmy seahorse most active?

Active during daylight hours. Morning and midday dives are your best chance to see it moving and feeding.

How long does the Denise's pygmy seahorse live?

The Denise's pygmy seahorse lives 1 to 2 years.

What is the conservation status of the Denise's pygmy seahorse?

The Denise's 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 Denise's pygmy seahorse. Spotted something that looks off?

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