Generally seahorses are found in depths between one and 15 metres. Adult seahorses are poor swimmers and use their tails to anchor onto objects. It is perhaps due to their often immobile state that they have become masters of camouflage and can change colour dramatically to suit their habitat. No doubt this ability to camouflage helps them to avoid predators. Syngnathids are unique in that the male gives birth to the young.
Female seahorses transfer eggs to the male s pouch where the eggs are fertilised.
Young seahorses are born as independent, miniature adults and receive no care from their parents. Young seahorses are eaten by many animals including fish, crustaceans and anemones. Approximately 120 species of seahorse have been recorded. A population at risk Because seahorses live in areas along the coast, the potential for impact from human activities is great. Very few studies have been carried out on wild seahorse populations and, as a result, scientists have no idea how many seahorses live in the wild and do not fully understand the basic biology of the creature.