Seahorses are widely traded for aquariums and traditional medicine, and their welfare needs are often poorly understood by hobbyists.
Wild-caught seahorses suffer during collection, transport, and captivity. Their specialized needs for specific salinity, temperature, live food, and compatible tankmates are rarely met in typical home aquariums. Seahorses deprived of anchoring opportunities show high stress. The traditional medicine trade involves drying seahorses alive. Most individuals die within weeks of purchase.