Spiny seahorses are rare UK residents of seagrass beds and other coastal habitats, facing threats from habitat loss, bycatch and collection for the traditional medicine trade.
Seahorse welfare is tied to the quality and extent of seagrass habitat and freedom from bycatch. Pair bonds in seahorses mean that the loss of one partner creates welfare harm for the surviving individual. Seagrass protection and restoration, combined with reduced inshore fishing pressure and enforcement against illegal collection, benefits seahorse welfare.