Long-snouted Seahorse
Hippocampus guttulatus
Characteristics
Scientific name
Size
Depth range
Nutrition
Behave
Frequency in Cyprus
Protection status
Native/Immigrant
Hippocampus guttulatus
Usually 10 to 18 cm in length, reaching a maximum of around 20 cm.
From 1 to 40 metres depth, occasionally found deeper.
Feeds on small crustaceans, amphipods, fish larvae, and zooplankton.
Calm and usually solitary or found in pairs; uses its prehensile tail to anchor itself to seagrass, algae, and other structures.
Locally encountered on a regular basis, but overall relatively uncommon and easily overlooked.
Protected; populations are declining in many parts of the Mediterranean.
Native Mediterranean species.
The Long-snouted Seahorse (Hippocampus guttulatus) is one of the most fascinating inhabitants of Cyprus’ coastal waters. Thanks to its excellent camouflage, it often goes unnoticed. Attentive divers and snorkellers may spot these remarkable fish, particularly in seagrass meadows and sheltered bays. Good opportunities for sightings exist at sites such as Caves & Tunnels and, on occasion, Green Bay.
Where to Find in Cyprus: Dive Sites & Habitat
The Long-snouted Seahorse (Hippocampus guttulatus) is native to the Mediterranean and can also be found in the waters around Cyprus. It prefers calm, shallow coastal habitats with seagrass meadows, algae-covered substrates, and sheltered rocky formations. Healthy stands of Cymodocea nodosa are particularly important, as these seagrass beds provide both food-rich environments and protection from currents and predators.
In Cyprus, Long-snouted Seahorses are regularly recorded at selected locations along the east coast. One of the best-known sites is Caves & Tunnels, where sightings are frequent enough for the area to be regarded by many local divers as one of the island’s premier seahorse locations. Seahorses are also occasionally found at Green Bay, although their exceptional camouflage makes them easy to overlook.
Behavior & Key Features Underwater
Seahorses are among the most unusual fish in the world. Unlike most fish, they swim in an upright position and move primarily by fluttering their dorsal fin. Most of the time, however, they remain anchored to seagrass, sponges, algae, or other structures with their prehensile tail, helping them conserve energy.
One of their most remarkable features is their unique reproductive behaviour. It is not the female but the male that carries the eggs. After mating, the female transfers her eggs into a specialised brood pouch on the male, where the embryos develop. After several weeks, the male releases fully formed miniature seahorses into the water.
For divers, seahorses are often a real challenge to find. Their body colour can vary from yellow and brown to almost black, allowing them to blend perfectly into their surroundings. Divers who spot one should pay particular attention to buoyancy control and maintain a respectful distance, as seahorses are sensitive to disturbance and are considered important indicators of healthy coastal ecosystems.
Frequently asked Questions (FAQ)
Where can you see seahorses in Cyprus?
Some of the best-known locations for seahorse sightings are Caves & Tunnels near Ayia Napa, as well as certain seagrass areas around Protaras and Green Bay.
Why are seahorses so difficult to find?
Thanks to their exceptional camouflage, seahorses blend perfectly into seagrass, algae, and their surroundings, making them very difficult to spot.
Do males really carry the eggs?
Yes. In seahorses, the male is responsible for brood care and carries the eggs in a specialised brood pouch until the young hatch.
Written by
Daniel "KID"