Collection: Seahorse

Barbour's Seahorse (Hippocampus barbouri)

The Barbour's Seahorse (Hippocampus barbouri) is an exquisite marine species admired for its unique appearance, including a slender body, prehensile tail, and prominent crown-like head structure. Native to the Indo-Pacific, this seahorse is a peaceful and captivating addition to marine aquariums, ideal for aquarists seeking a one-of-a-kind marine inhabitant. Its delicate nature requires a specialized and stable environment, making it best suited for experienced aquarists.

Product Details

• Species: Hippocampus barbouri
• Common Names: Barbour's Seahorse
• Origin: Indo-Pacific (Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia)
• Diet: Carnivore
• Maximum Size: 10–15 cm (4–6 inches)
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Care Level: Advanced

Care Guidelines

Marine Aquarium Setup:
Barbour's Seahorses thrive in species-specific tanks of at least 60 liters per pair, with calm water flow and plenty of vertical surfaces for them to grasp, such as seagrasses, macroalgae, and artificial coral branches. Ensure the tank is free from aggressive or fast-swimming species to reduce stress. Fine sand or soft substrate is recommended to protect their delicate tails. A specialized seahorse tank with gentle circulation and low light is ideal.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 24°C – 26°C
• pH Range: 8.1 – 8.4
• Salinity: 1.023 – 1.025 SG
• Water Hardness: 8 – 12 dKH

Diet:
Barbour's Seahorses are carnivorous and require a diet of small, protein-rich foods. Feed live or frozen mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, and copepods. Offer food 2–3 times daily and ensure it is placed in a low-flow area where the seahorses can easily access it. Supplemental feeding stations can help maintain proper nutrition.

Behavior and Compatibility:
Barbour's Seahorses are peaceful and best kept in pairs or small groups. Avoid housing them with aggressive, fast-moving, or territorial species. Suitable tankmates include small, non-aggressive fish like gobies, pipefish, and other seahorses. Invertebrates like snails and cleaner shrimp can also coexist peacefully.

Growth and Maintenance:

Barbour's Seahorses grow up to 15 cm and require diligent care and stable water conditions. Perform frequent water changes and monitor parameters closely, as seahorses are sensitive to fluctuations. Their slow feeding habits and need for calm environments make them a rewarding but advanced addition to marine aquariums.

Availability:
Barbour's Seahorses (Hippocampus barbouri) are available at Cradle Coast Pet & Aquarium. Visit or contact the store to check availability and bring home this delicate and fascinating marine species today!

Due to variations within species and age, your seahorse may not look identical to the image provided.