Wednesday, August 3, 2011

How to keep Seahorses in the Aquarium








In nature most seahorses are found in the lagoons and grass flats inside the reef. Because of this environment, seahorses may encounter larger variations in water temperature and salinity. Seahorses may adapt to a wider range of water conditions than the reef fish commonly kept in aquariums.


Seahorses should not be kept with other fish as tankmates. This is due to the fact that they cannot compete with the fast moving fish for food. They are best kept in a small (10-20 gallon) aquarium by themselves.

With the right aquarium set-up, proper feeding and care, seahorses may live for many years. Average age for many of the tropical seahorses is about 4-6 years. They will reach sexual maturity as early as 4 months, and pairs will readily spawn in aquariums. Seahorse reproduction is well known for having the male give birth to live young. Fertilization actually takes place in the female and then she passes the fertile eggs into the male pouch where they develop for two to four weeks, and are eventually released. Typically 50 to 150 juveniles may be born over the course of many hours.

Recently all Seahorses were placed on the Appendix II list of endangered species by CITES (Convention for the International Trade in Endangered Species). This severely restricts the legal import and export of seahorses

Deep Sea Aquarium Maintenance carries only tank raised seahorses and will deliver them to your home.  We also specialize in complete seahorse aquarium set-ups for your home or office.  Call 562 477-2219 for a free estimate.

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