Hippocampus ingens

Datasheet

General Description

The Ingen's Seahorse, Hippocampus ingens, is recognized as one of the larger seahorse species, showcasing a color range from reddish to maroon, gray, yellow, and gold with varying shades of brown. Sporting fine white markings that can run vertically along their body, these seahorses are masters of camouflage, employing slow movements to blend seamlessly with their surroundings.

Aquarium Suitability

Known for their social nature, Ingen's Seahorses flourish when housed in mated pairs or small groups within a species-exclusive aquarium. A 30-gallon tank proves adequate for a single pair, with an additional 20 gallons recommended for each extra pair. Seahorses are not strong swimmers; instead, they employ their prehensile tails to cling to live rock, algae, or artificial decorations.

Demands, Care, and Hardiness

Challenging to care for, these seahorses demand specific conditions for optimal health. It is crucial to monitor and maintain calcium and alkalinity levels in the aquarium to support the well-being of their bony plates. Preventing the water temperature from surpassing 74°F is essential in warding off Vibrio bacterial infections, especially in the presence of other Syngnathid species. Regular removal of detritus and uneaten food is necessary to maintain water quality.

Reef Suitability

Reef-compatible, these seahorses can coexist with small, shy fish like gobies, pipefish, dragonets, and firefish. However, caution is advised with aggressive or territorial tank mates, as well as corals or anemones with stinging tentacles. While certain corals like sea fans and branching varieties may be safe, continual hitching behavior from seahorses could potentially damage them.

Aquarium Setup

To cater to the needs of these seahorses, it is recommended to incorporate spray bars to create gentle water flow while eliminating stagnant spots in the tank. Providing branching structures for hitching, along with ensuring a calm environment, is crucial. Simulating their natural habitat with adequate hiding spots and minimal stressors contributes to their overall well-being.

Behaviour

Highly social and curious creatures, Ingen's Seahorses exhibit interactive behaviors with each other, their surroundings, and even their caretakers. Their deliberate movements and distinctive appearance make them captivating additions to an aquarium, fostering a dynamic and engaging aquatic environment.

Feeding and Diet

Categorized as carnivores, these seahorses thrive on a diet primarily consisting of frozen Mysis shrimp, supplemented with vitamin-enriched adult brine shrimp. Offering two or more small feedings per day caters to their feeding habits, allowing them to consume small crustaceans found in live rock as well. Care should be taken to prevent aggressive tank mates from out-competing them for food.

Habitat and Distribution

Ingen's Seahorses, native to the wild, are often found hunting for tiny crustaceans in their natural habitats. Their distribution spans regions where they can blend in with their surroundings using camouflage to elude predators, showcasing adaptations that reflect their evolutionary prowess in survival techniques.