Wildlife

Seahorse Welfare in Aquariums and Trade

Seahorses face significant welfare challenges both in traditional medicine trade and in public and private aquarium settings.

Key Facts

Over 20 million seahorses are traded annually for traditional medicine
Seahorses have specific feeding requirements including live small crustaceans
They are poor swimmers that suffer in strong currents from aquarium filtration
Many seahorse species are declining from overcollection and habitat loss

Welfare Considerations

Seahorses in aquariums without appropriate water movement management suffer from being blown into filtration inlets or unable to maintain position. Their specialized feeding requirements mean many die from starvation when appropriate live food is not provided. Seahorses dried for traditional medicine die through slow desiccation. Conservation of seagrass and coral reef habitat is the most effective welfare and conservation intervention.

What You Can Do

Never purchase wild-caught seahorses for aquariums
Research seahorse feeding requirements thoroughly before keeping them
Avoid traditional medicines containing dried seahorses
Support seagrass and coral reef conservation programs