Saltwater Fish
Hippocampus kuda

Species Description…

Scientific Name: Hippocampus kuda
Common Name: Yellow Seahorse
Species Group: Seahorse
Habitat: Reef Safe with Caution
Care Level: Advanced
Temperament: Peaceful
Diet Type: Carnivore
Role in Aquarium: Showpiece Fish
Max Fish Length: 12 (inches)
Min Aquarium Size: 30 (gallons)
Native Range: Indo-Pacific, including Southeast Asia and Australia
Hippocampus kuda - Yellow Seahorse

Hippocampus kuda (Yellow Seahorse)

Overview

  • Found in the Indo-Pacific region.
  • Known for their ability to change color and their prehensile tail.
  • They have a distinctive equine profile with a curved body and a long snout.
  • Yellow seahorses are slow-moving and have a unique upright swimming posture.

Feeding

  • They are carnivores that feed on small crustaceans and other tiny invertebrates.
  • Seahorses use their long snouts to suck up prey.
  • They are continuous feeders, grazing throughout the day.
  • Live or frozen small invertebrates are typically part of their diet.

Habitat

  • Yellow seahorses inhabit sheltered areas such as seagrass beds, mangroves, and coral reefs.
  • They prefer areas with plenty of vegetation or structures to which they can cling using their tails.
  • These seahorses are found in tropical and subtropical waters.
  • They require environments that offer both shelter and a steady supply of food.

Seahorse Care

  • Maintaining stable water parameters is crucial for their health.
  • Providing a varied and nutritious diet is essential.
  • Regular water quality testing helps prevent stress and disease.
  • A calm environment is important, as they are easily stressed.

Compatibility

  • Seahorses are delicate and should be housed with peaceful, slow-moving tank mates.
  • They are not aggressive but can be outcompeted for food by faster fish.
  • Avoid housing them with fish that might nip at their fins or tails.
  • A species-specific tank is often recommended to provide the ideal environment.

Aquarium Behavior

  • Yellow seahorses are gentle and deliberate in their movements.
  • They spend much of their time attached to objects with their prehensile tails.
  • They exhibit unique courtship behaviors.
  • Observing their feeding habits and interactions is a key part of their care.