Wikipedia - User contributions [en]

Talk:Lined seahorse

2012-01-12T15:37:48Z

Littlecass: /* Flickr */ new section

{{Fishproject|class=C|importance=Low}}
{{APBiology|Year=2011}}

I welcome your assistance! (LittleCass 01:22, 1 November 2011 (UTC))

==Move?==
<div class="boilerplate" style="background-color: #efe; margin: 2em 0 0 0; padding: 0 10px 0 10px; border: 1px dotted #aaa;">
:''The following discussion is an archived discussion of a [[WP:RM|requested move]]. <span style="color:red">'''Please do not modify it.'''</span> Subsequent comments should be made in a new section on the talk page. No further edits should be made to this section. ''

The result of the move request was: '''page moved'''. '''<font color="navy">[[User:NuclearWarfare|NW]]</font>''' ''(<font color="green">[[User talk:NuclearWarfare|Talk]]</font>)'' 00:27, 4 April 2011 (UTC)

----

[[Hippocampus erectus]] → {{no redirect|1=Lined Seahorse}} —
* Articles about animals are generally listed under their common name. [[User:Benanna|Benanna]] ([[User talk:Benanna|talk]]) 18:54, 27 March 2011 (UTC)
:''The above discussion is preserved as an archive of a [[WP:RM|requested move]]. <span style="color:red">'''Please do not modify it.'''</span> Subsequent comments should be made in a new section on this talk page. No further edits should be made to this section.</div>
Bigote!!! <span style="font-size: smaller;" class="autosigned">— Preceding [[Wikipedia:Signatures|unsigned]] comment added by [[Special:Contributions/190.197.32.187|190.197.32.187]] ([[User talk:190.197.32.187|talk]]) 01:55, 7 December 2011 (UTC)</span> 

== Lead ==

Please read [[WP:LEAD]]. The lead section is suppose to be a summary of the main body of article and won't normally be directly referenced as the refereneces would be in the body of the text. The exception is if something is contraversual but I doubt that occurs on this article. Regards, [[User:SunCreator|SunCreator]] <sup>([[User talk:SunCreator|talk]])</sup> 22:17, 2 November 2011 (UTC)

:I was not aware of this--thank you for letting me know. Do you know of any good introductions on a specific page that I can model after, or will any FA article do? (LittleCass 00:05, 3 November 2011 (UTC))

== Some thoughts ==

[[File:Sea_Horse_2_PSF_S-820006.png|80px|right]]
* Units are inconsistant. Sometimes only metric, sometimes only imperial, can't tell who the reader would be so give both. Sometimes full name i.e. inches, sometimes short name i.e. cm, be consistant. Look at using {{tlx|Convert}}
* More [[wikilink]]s required on unusual or unfamiliar phrases.
* Use of lined seahorse and H. erectus. Would be best to stick to lined seahorse per the article title unless specific reason otherwise.
* Some redundancy and repeating things. Likely <s>that</s> condensing can occur, see [[WP:REDEX]].
* The seahorse would be "happiest". Emotions to animals are not normally considered scientific.
* Does the image on right that is large in the article add anything to the article? Maybe cut it?
Regards, [[User:SunCreator|SunCreator]] <sup>([[User talk:SunCreator|talk]])</sup> 19:13, 9 January 2012 (UTC)

*I will definitely address this list within this week, hopefully tomorrow if I have time. I appreciate it--you are the only one who has really checkout this article since I have been working on it, so the advice is helpful. LittleCass 04:09, 10 January 2012 (UTC)

== Aquarium ==

How about http://www.flickr.com/photos/niemo1954/353051416/? It's got [http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/deed.en_GB a license] that would enable it to be used on Wikipedia. Regards, [[User:SunCreator|SunCreator]] <sup>([[User talk:SunCreator|talk]])</sup> 04:09, 10 January 2012 (UTC)
:http://www.flickr.com/photos/noaaphotolib/5187496081/ and http://www.flickr.com/photos/briangratwicke/6316824300/ is also available with valid license. Regards, [[User:SunCreator|SunCreator]] <sup>([[User talk:SunCreator|talk]])</sup> 04:15, 10 January 2012 (UTC)

:Wow! These are all awesome. I love the one of the male and female embraced; that really shows the behavior they exhibit during courtship. Thank you for finding these! All of these will be a good replacement for the large image. Thanks again!!! Littlecass 16:47, 10 January 2012 (UTC)

== Flickr ==

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:FLICKR

Lined seahorse

2012-01-12T15:35:51Z

Littlecass: /* Predators and parasites */ moved right to left

{{Taxobox
| image = Matt.jpg
| status = VU
| status_system = iucn3.1
| status_ref= <ref name="IUCN">{{Cite web|url=http://www.iucnredlist.org/apps/redlist/details/10066/0 |title=Hippocampus erectus |accessdate=2011-12-08 |year=2011 |publisher= International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources}}</ref>
| regnum = [[Animalia]]
| phylum = [[Chordata]]
| classis = [[Actinopterygii]]
| ordo = [[Syngnathiformes]]
| familia = [[Syngnathidae]]
| genus = ''[[Seahorse|Hippocampus]]''
| species = '''''H. erectus'''''
| binomial = ''Hippocampus erectus''
| binomial_authority = Perry, 1810
}}

The '''lined seahorse''' (''Hippocampus erectus''), '''northern seahorse''' or '''spotted seahorse''' is a species of fish that belongs to the [[Syngnathidae]] family.<ref name = "fishbase">{{Cite web | last = Froese | first = R. | last2 = Pauly | first2 = D. | title = ''Hippocampus erectus Perry, 1810 Lined Seahorse'' | publisher = FishBase | url = http://www.fishbase.org/summary/speciessummary.php?id=3283}}</ref> ''H. erectus'' is a diurnal species with an approximate length of 15 centimeters (6 inches) and lifespan of one to four years. The ''H. erectus'' species consists of a broad color spectrum, ranging from greys and blacks to reds, greens, and oranges. The lined seahorse resides in the Atlantic Ocean from Canada down to the Caribbean, Mexico, and Venezuela. It swims in an erect position and uses its dorsal and pectoral fins to guide itself when propelling through the water.

Lined seahorses feed mainly on minute crustaceans and brine shrimp, which they suck in through their snout. Since the species consists of weak swimmers, they must ambush their prey by blending into their surroundings, which they do rather easily. The lined seahorse has eyes that can move independently of one another, allowing it to scan its surroundings rather easily and quickly. The species is sexually dimorphic, meaning it is easy to distinguish between a male and female lined seahorse; the males are larger and have longer tails. The lined seahorse is monogamous and perform ritual dances every morning in order to establish a bond with its mate, in addition to the clicking sounds and embraces that occur when they initially find their mate. If either the male or female should die, its mate would take time before replacing it with a new mate, if it does not die due to its short lifespan.

Uncommon to most species of animals, the male lined seahorse is the caregiver. During intercourse, the female sprays her eggs into the male's brood pouch where they will incubate for 20-21 days. When the juveniles are ready to hatch, the male attaches its tail to a stationary structure and begins to arch its back back and forth, releasing the juveniles into the water column. The juveniles are approximately 11 mm at birth. They quickly begin to learn and mimic the behavior of its parent. Courtship between the male and female parents begin immediately after birth.

The habitat of the lined seahorse is diminishing due to coastal growth and pollution, which is decreasing the population. The lined seahorse is also used as Chinese medicine and is common in the aquarium trade, contributing to its status of "vulnerable."

==Description==

[[File:Sea Horse 2 PSF S-820006.png|thumb|180px|This image shows the bony structure of the lined seahorse.]] The lined seahorse was first named ''Hippocampus Erectus'' by [[George Perry (naturalist)|George Perry]] in 1810.<ref>{{cite book|title=Perry's Arcana|first1=George|last1=Perry|first2=Richard E.|last2=Petit|page=34}}</ref> "Hippocampus" translates into "horse or sea monster" in ancient Greek.<ref name = "Florida Museum" /> The lined seahorse is a diurnal species that ranges in length from 12 cm to 17 cm; the maximum length reported for the species is 19 cm. The lined seahorse is sexually dimorphic, meaning there are distinct differences in appearances of males and females; most notably the brood pouch located on the male's abdomen which it utilized in reproduction. Males are also slightly larger in size and have longer prehensile tails than the females. In the wild, the lined seahorse has a lifespan of one to four years; however, in captivity their lifespan usually reaches the full four years. Four years is the maximum age reported for the species.<ref name = "Rosamond Gifford Zoo">{{cite web | author = Rosamond Gifford Zoo Volunteers | title = Lined Seahorse | date = July 23, 2005 | url = http://www.rosamondgiffordzoo.org/assets/uploads/animals/pdf/LinedSeahorse.pdf}}</ref> They have a broad color spectrum, ranging from black, grey, brown, and green, to orange, red, and yellow. They tend to be paler on their front side.<ref name = "Florida Museum" />However, their colors change due to altercations in their environment, diet, anxiety or stress level, and/or mood.<ref name ="seahorsesource">{{Cite web | title = H. erectus | publisher = Seahorse Source, Inc. 2005 | accessdate = 31 October 2011 | url = http://www.seahorsesource.com/erectus.html}}</ref> The lined seahorse is brawny and upright in appearance. They have an armor-like body composed of approximately fifty bony plates. Together these bony plates form the outer skeleton of the species. It is common for the species to have white lines outlining the neck area--hence its common name, "lined seahorse"--and for tiny white dots to be present on the tail. The prehensile tail consists of numerous rings and the first, third, fifth, seventh, and eleventh may protrude farther outward than the remaining. The prehensile tail following the bony plates is utilized by the seahorse to grasp onto its environment composed of seaweed and coral. The tail curls forward and is seldom aligned. When a lined seahorse is very young (two weeks to four weeks), the tail is extremely limber. The snout length is approximately half the head length of the lined seahorse. The cheek spines, located diagonally down from the eye on either side may be single or double. In total, the lined seahorse has eleven trunk rings, 34–39 tail rings, 16–20 dorsal fin rays, and 14–18 pectoral fin rays. The pectoral fin is level with the eye on each back side of the lined seahorse's head. The dorsal fin is located on the back of the skeleton and is level with the stomach–chest area. Female dorsal fins are slightly larger than the male's and are located lower on the back. The eyes of the lined seahorse can concentrate together, or they can operate independently of one another.<ref name = "Gardiner">{{Cite web | last = Gardiner | first = Nick, University of Michigan | title = Hippocampus erectus | publisher = Animal Diversity Web | accessdate = 31 October 2011 | url = http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Hippocampus_erectus.html}}</ref> The lined seahorse may be considered sexually mature as early as four months; however, it is typically about eight months. The minimum size of a sexually mature lined seahorse is 5.6 cm.<ref name = "seahorsesource" /><ref name="Smithsonian">{{Cite web | last = Sweat | first = L.H. | title = Hippocampus erectus | publisher = Smithsonian Marine Station at Fort Pierce 2009 | url = http://www.sms.si.edu/IRLSpec/Hippoc_erectu.htm}}</ref>

==Habitat and distribution==

The lined seahorse is found in the Atlantic Ocean, spotted as far north as Nova Scotia, Canada, and as far south as Venezuela in South America. They can be found on the east coast of America in Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and North Carolina, as well as in the waters surrounding Mexico and the Caribbean. Species found in Brazil seem to be of a different species, however, more research is needed to determine. The lined seahorse is native to the following locations: Nova Scotia, Canada, United States, Bermuda, Cuba, Mexico (Veracruz, Yucatán), Haiti, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Belize, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Guatemala, and Venezuela.

[[File:Linedseahorse.jpg|thumb|220px|left|alt=Photograph]] The species is common in depths of water up to seventy-three meters. Adults can be found swimming freely in the water column or attached to a stationary object. Juveniles usually swim near the surface.<ref name = "Florida Museum">{{Cite web | last = Bester | first = Cathleen | title = Lined Seahorse | publisher = Florida Museum of Natural History Ichthyology Department | url = http://www.flmnh.ufl.edu/fish/gallery/Descript/LinedSeahorse/linedseahorse.html}}</ref> The habitat of the lined seahorse consists of marine vegetation, such as suspended Sargassum, seagrass, sponges, and mangroves. Depending on the season, the species can be found in shallow waters or deep waters along beaches, oyster beds, and banks covered in vegetation, as well as in bays or salt marshes. Lined seahorses can often be found with their tails wrapped around crab pots.<ref name = "iucn">{{Cite web | title = ''Hippocampus erectus'' | publisher = IUCN Red List of Threatened Species Version 2011 Project Seahorse 2003 | url = http://www.iucnredlist.org/apps/redlist/details/10066/0}}</ref><ref name = Bayville /> In the winter, the seahorses are more prominent in deeper waters, versus warmer months, where they can be found in shallow waters in the various types of aquatic vegetation mentioned above.<ref name = "ChesapeakeBay">{{Cite web |title = Lined Seahorse | publisher = Chesapeake Bay Program (Bay Field Guide) | url = http://www.chesapeakbay.net/bfg_lined_seahorse.aspx?menuitem=14400}}</ref>

The temperature in which the ''H. erectus'' dwells varies with the different latitudes and has an effect on gonad development, brood size, and juvenile development and survival. Many lined seahorses experience temperature fluctuations during tides daily cycles, the different seasons of each year, and due to precipitation or runoff. Adults do have the ability to migrate to deeper waters during cold seasons. A study showed that the highest survival and growth rate of juveniles occurred at 28 to 29 degrees Celsius in captivity. In addition to temperature, there is also a large range of salinity concentration depending on the location. The most common salinity is 25 to 35 ppt. In captivity, the species is most commonly kept at 35 ppt.<ref name = "Smithsonian" /> The ''H. erectus'' is the only species of seahorse native to the Chesapeake Bay.<ref name = "Bayville" />

==Diet==
The lined seahorse utilizes its elongated snout in order to consume its prey, consisting primarily of minute [[crustaceans]], mollusks, and zoo plankton. Unfortunately, some captive parental males have been known to cannibalize small number of its own fry, or juveniles, following its release into natural habitat. In order to ambush its prey, the seahorse employs color changes to camouflage itself with its surrounding environment, locates the prey, and then jerks its head upward, forcing the prey in the right position to be sucked in through its tubular snout. The lined seahorse is highly accurate, especially if its prey is within one inch from its snout. Overall, this process is quick and accurate. A growing lined seahorse may feed continuously for up to ten hours a day, engulfing approximately 3,600 baby [[brine shrimp]].<ref name = "Gardiner" /><ref name = "Smithsonian" /><ref name = "ChesapeakeBay" />

==Predators and parasites==
[[File:Loggerhead sea turtle.jpg|thumb|220px|left|alt=Photograph|This sea turtle preys on the ''H. erectus'' species.]]
The predators of the lined seahorse include crabs, [[ray (fish)|rays]], various type of [[sea turtle]]s, skates, [[seabird]]s, sharks, tuna, and [[dolphinfish]]. Although their [[camouflage]] tactics reduce their risk of becoming prey, their poor swimming abilities increase their likelihood of being consumed by their predators, especially large fish.<ref name = "Florida Museum" /><ref name = "Bayville">{{Cite web | last = Bayville | title = Lined Seahorse | publisher = 2005 Maryland Public Television | url = http://bayville.thinkport.org/printables/sea_horse.pdf}}</ref>

There are many parasites and infections known to affect the lined seahorse, including [[ciliate]]s (Uronemamarinum), [[nematodes]], fungi, [[myxosporidian]], and [[microsporidian]]s (Glugea heraldi).<ref name = "Smithsonian" />

==Behavior==

A unique characteristic of the lined seahorse (and other species of seahorse) is their practice of monogamy: the male and female seahorses choose partners that they will continue to mate with for their lifetime.<ref name = "Project Seahorse">{{cite web | author = Project Seahorse Team" | title = Introduction to seahorses | publisher = Project Seahorse | url = http://seahorse.fisheries.ubc.ca/node/354}}</ref> The monogamous characteristics of the lined seahorse include ritual dances with their partner that they perform every morning. These dances establish their permanent relationship as mates. If a male or female lined seahorse should lose their partner for any reason, it takes time before they replace their mate.<ref name = "Gardiner" />

[[File:Lined Seahorse sideways.jpg|thumb|220px|right|alt=Photograph|The fins help guide and propel the seahorse.]] Lined seahorses are weak swimmers; they swim in an erect position. In comparison to their fins, the lined seahorse's body is too large, another reason why they are poor swimmers. They do not swim for long periods of time, nor do they travel far distances, unless they are migrating.<ref name = "Bayville" /> The lined seahorse propels its body forward with its dorsal and pectoral fins, which they move rapidly back and forth. These fins are also utilized in directing their bodies throughout the water and beat twenty to thirty times per second, making them almost invisible at first glance.<ref name = "Gardiner" /><ref name = "Bayville" />

In addition to monogamy, the lined seahorse also cues into sound-making in the mating process. The seahorses have a crown-like bony crest called a coronet located on the backside of their head at the edge of the skull. Each coronet is unique to the organism, just as a fingerprint is unique to every human.<ref name = "Bayville" /> The coronet resembles a star pattern and is attached rather loosely and has sharp edges.<ref name = "Smithsonian" /> As the seahorse lifts its head, the edge of the skull slides beneath the coronet and out when the seahorse bows its head. As the skull's edge slides beneath and out from the coronet, a clicking sound is produced. Mating seahorses swim slowly together, alternating their clicking sounds, until they embrace one another. Once the male and female seahorse embrace, the sounds from both the male and female unify, becoming indistinguishable from one another. This action creates a louder, consecutive sound, further establishing their bond.<ref name = "Gardiner" />

==Reproduction==

[[File:Lined Seahorse straight tail.jpg|thumb|220px|left|alt=Photograph|This image shows the prehensile tail utilized in reproduction by the male seahorse.]] Like all species of seahorses, the lined seahorse reproduces sexually, laying eggs every season. In addition, the male is the parent that looks after the newborn seahorses. The reproduction process begins at the initiation of the courtship process. Courtship extends for a couple of days and during this process, both the male and female may change to a pale color. The male enlarges his pouch to indicate his desire to pursue the female. Once they are established as monogamous mates though dances and clicking sounds, intercourse takes place.

During intercourse, the female sprays her eggs into the males pouch, which is called a "brood pouch", where they are fertilized and sealed. Females clutch size can be equal to or greater than one thousand and the males' brood size can range from 97 to 1,552 eggs. The number of eggs the female produces varies depending on the size of the seahorse. Six hundred and fifty eggs can be carried by a single male at one time. The eggs are 1.5 mm in diameter. When the eggs are being incubated within the male's pouch, the embryos are provided oxygen via an extensive capillary system. Through this system, the sodium and calcium levels can be altered in order to maintain homeostasis within the pouch environment. When the embryos are approaching birth, the pouch environment is very similar to the seawater. The gestation period lasts for 20–21 days. When the time finally approaches, the male latches his prehensile tail onto a supportive object while he braces back and forth, until the developed seahorses escape from the pouch. The bracing continues until all seahorses have successfully escaped the pouch. However, unhatched seahorses that have died will create a gas within the male's pouch. Soon after, the male seahorse inevitably floats to the surface, only to become easy prey in the marine food chain.<ref name = "Aquatic Community" />

Juveniles are approximately 11 mm at birth for three days and are considered embryos until they are capable of swimming on their own. Juveniles do not reach maximum size until they are 8–10 months of age. It is estimated by scientists that only about two juveniles grow up to be adults out of the hundreds that are hatched.<ref name = "Bayville" /> In captivity, the species maintained a vertical growth rate of 0.55 mm a day for 100 days. Male juveniles develop pouches when they are 5–7 months old. The juvenile seahorses quickly develop the characteristic of the adult lined seahorse. After birth, courtship begins once again. Breeding occurs in the months of May through October in the Chesapeake Bay. July is when the lined seahorse population is the greatest in Florida.<ref name = "Gardiner" /><ref name = "Smithsonian" /><ref name = "ChesapeakeBay" />

==Aquarium life==

The minimum habitat requirements for captive lined seahorses consist of a tank 18 inches vertical in height and 20 to 25 gallons for a pair, 30 to 40 gallons for two pairs. The tank should be kept at a constant temperature between 22 and 25 degrees Celsius (72 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit).<ref name = "seahorsesource" /> The ph value should remain between 8.1 and 8.4 and the specific gravity between 1.020 and 1.025.[[File:Lined Seahorse front.jpg|thumb|220px|right|alt=Photograph|In this front view of the lined seahorse, the eyes can be seen; they can move independently of one another.]][[

The lined seahorse is an easy going species and will not be a threat to other fish that could possibly be in an aquarium. The seahorse would be happiest in an environment with objects it can hide around and attach its tail to. The ''H. erectus'' species should be fed multiple times throughout the day, rather than less amount of larger meals.<ref name = "Aquatic Community">{{Cite web | title = Lined Seahorse | publisher = Aquatic Community | date = 2004 | url = http://www.aquaticcommunity.com/Sea-horses/lined.php}}</ref> In captivity, the lined seahorse is often fed live or frozen [[nauplius (larva)|nauplius]] or [[Mysis shrimp]], [[grass shrimp]], adult brine shrimp, [[gammarid]]s and [[caprellida|caprellid amphipod]]s, [[krill]] fish [[fry (biology)|fry]], and frozen krill.<ref name = "Smithsonian" />

==Obstacles==

The lined seahorse species has declined about thirty percent since ___, and is considered vulnerable in the 2003 [[IUCN]] assessment.<ref name="IUCN"/> Due to loss or harm to their habitat by pollution and coastal development, [[accidental catch]], or by purposeful catch, the lined seahorse's population is starting to dwindle. The ''H. erectus'' is a very common species of the aquarium trade, which also affects the population remaining in the wild. The lined seahorse is also used for ornamental decoration and for [[Chinese medicine]]. Despite being a popular seahorse for aquarium trade and Chinese medicine, it is only suspected that the species could be a potential candidate for commercial [[aquaculture]]. If successful, this could positively affect the population of the lined seahorse.<ref name = "Smithsonian" /><ref name = "About">{{Cite web | last = Hauter | first = Stan and Debbie | title = Lined Seahorse Profile - Facts, care info, pictures and more on H. erectus | publisher = About.com | url =http://saltaquarium.about.com/od/seahorserelatedpipefish/p/prinedseahorse.htm}}</ref><ref name = "Webster and Sedberry">{{Cite web | last2 = Sedberry | first2 = George R. | last = Webster | first = Pearse | title = Lined seahorse | url = http://saltaquarium.about.com/od/seahorserelatedpipefish/p/prinedseahorse.htm}}</ref>

{{clear}}

==References==

{{Reflist|col width=33em}}

[[Category:Hippocampus]]

[[ca:Hippocampus erectus]]
[[co:Hippocampus erectus]]
[[es:Hippocampus erectus]]
[[fr:Hippocampus erectus]]
[[nl:Hippocampus erectus]]
[[pt:Hippocampus erectus]]
[[sr:Hippocampus erectus]]

Lined seahorse

2012-01-12T15:34:35Z

Littlecass: moved image left to right

{{Taxobox
| image = Matt.jpg
| status = VU
| status_system = iucn3.1
| status_ref= <ref name="IUCN">{{Cite web|url=http://www.iucnredlist.org/apps/redlist/details/10066/0 |title=Hippocampus erectus |accessdate=2011-12-08 |year=2011 |publisher= International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources}}</ref>
| regnum = [[Animalia]]
| phylum = [[Chordata]]
| classis = [[Actinopterygii]]
| ordo = [[Syngnathiformes]]
| familia = [[Syngnathidae]]
| genus = ''[[Seahorse|Hippocampus]]''
| species = '''''H. erectus'''''
| binomial = ''Hippocampus erectus''
| binomial_authority = Perry, 1810
}}

The '''lined seahorse''' (''Hippocampus erectus''), '''northern seahorse''' or '''spotted seahorse''' is a species of fish that belongs to the [[Syngnathidae]] family.<ref name = "fishbase">{{Cite web | last = Froese | first = R. | last2 = Pauly | first2 = D. | title = ''Hippocampus erectus Perry, 1810 Lined Seahorse'' | publisher = FishBase | url = http://www.fishbase.org/summary/speciessummary.php?id=3283}}</ref> ''H. erectus'' is a diurnal species with an approximate length of 15 centimeters (6 inches) and lifespan of one to four years. The ''H. erectus'' species consists of a broad color spectrum, ranging from greys and blacks to reds, greens, and oranges. The lined seahorse resides in the Atlantic Ocean from Canada down to the Caribbean, Mexico, and Venezuela. It swims in an erect position and uses its dorsal and pectoral fins to guide itself when propelling through the water.

Lined seahorses feed mainly on minute crustaceans and brine shrimp, which they suck in through their snout. Since the species consists of weak swimmers, they must ambush their prey by blending into their surroundings, which they do rather easily. The lined seahorse has eyes that can move independently of one another, allowing it to scan its surroundings rather easily and quickly. The species is sexually dimorphic, meaning it is easy to distinguish between a male and female lined seahorse; the males are larger and have longer tails. The lined seahorse is monogamous and perform ritual dances every morning in order to establish a bond with its mate, in addition to the clicking sounds and embraces that occur when they initially find their mate. If either the male or female should die, its mate would take time before replacing it with a new mate, if it does not die due to its short lifespan.

Uncommon to most species of animals, the male lined seahorse is the caregiver. During intercourse, the female sprays her eggs into the male's brood pouch where they will incubate for 20-21 days. When the juveniles are ready to hatch, the male attaches its tail to a stationary structure and begins to arch its back back and forth, releasing the juveniles into the water column. The juveniles are approximately 11 mm at birth. They quickly begin to learn and mimic the behavior of its parent. Courtship between the male and female parents begin immediately after birth.

The habitat of the lined seahorse is diminishing due to coastal growth and pollution, which is decreasing the population. The lined seahorse is also used as Chinese medicine and is common in the aquarium trade, contributing to its status of "vulnerable."

==Description==

[[File:Sea Horse 2 PSF S-820006.png|thumb|180px|This image shows the bony structure of the lined seahorse.]] The lined seahorse was first named ''Hippocampus Erectus'' by [[George Perry (naturalist)|George Perry]] in 1810.<ref>{{cite book|title=Perry's Arcana|first1=George|last1=Perry|first2=Richard E.|last2=Petit|page=34}}</ref> "Hippocampus" translates into "horse or sea monster" in ancient Greek.<ref name = "Florida Museum" /> The lined seahorse is a diurnal species that ranges in length from 12 cm to 17 cm; the maximum length reported for the species is 19 cm. The lined seahorse is sexually dimorphic, meaning there are distinct differences in appearances of males and females; most notably the brood pouch located on the male's abdomen which it utilized in reproduction. Males are also slightly larger in size and have longer prehensile tails than the females. In the wild, the lined seahorse has a lifespan of one to four years; however, in captivity their lifespan usually reaches the full four years. Four years is the maximum age reported for the species.<ref name = "Rosamond Gifford Zoo">{{cite web | author = Rosamond Gifford Zoo Volunteers | title = Lined Seahorse | date = July 23, 2005 | url = http://www.rosamondgiffordzoo.org/assets/uploads/animals/pdf/LinedSeahorse.pdf}}</ref> They have a broad color spectrum, ranging from black, grey, brown, and green, to orange, red, and yellow. They tend to be paler on their front side.<ref name = "Florida Museum" />However, their colors change due to altercations in their environment, diet, anxiety or stress level, and/or mood.<ref name ="seahorsesource">{{Cite web | title = H. erectus | publisher = Seahorse Source, Inc. 2005 | accessdate = 31 October 2011 | url = http://www.seahorsesource.com/erectus.html}}</ref> The lined seahorse is brawny and upright in appearance. They have an armor-like body composed of approximately fifty bony plates. Together these bony plates form the outer skeleton of the species. It is common for the species to have white lines outlining the neck area--hence its common name, "lined seahorse"--and for tiny white dots to be present on the tail. The prehensile tail consists of numerous rings and the first, third, fifth, seventh, and eleventh may protrude farther outward than the remaining. The prehensile tail following the bony plates is utilized by the seahorse to grasp onto its environment composed of seaweed and coral. The tail curls forward and is seldom aligned. When a lined seahorse is very young (two weeks to four weeks), the tail is extremely limber. The snout length is approximately half the head length of the lined seahorse. The cheek spines, located diagonally down from the eye on either side may be single or double. In total, the lined seahorse has eleven trunk rings, 34–39 tail rings, 16–20 dorsal fin rays, and 14–18 pectoral fin rays. The pectoral fin is level with the eye on each back side of the lined seahorse's head. The dorsal fin is located on the back of the skeleton and is level with the stomach–chest area. Female dorsal fins are slightly larger than the male's and are located lower on the back. The eyes of the lined seahorse can concentrate together, or they can operate independently of one another.<ref name = "Gardiner">{{Cite web | last = Gardiner | first = Nick, University of Michigan | title = Hippocampus erectus | publisher = Animal Diversity Web | accessdate = 31 October 2011 | url = http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Hippocampus_erectus.html}}</ref> The lined seahorse may be considered sexually mature as early as four months; however, it is typically about eight months. The minimum size of a sexually mature lined seahorse is 5.6 cm.<ref name = "seahorsesource" /><ref name="Smithsonian">{{Cite web | last = Sweat | first = L.H. | title = Hippocampus erectus | publisher = Smithsonian Marine Station at Fort Pierce 2009 | url = http://www.sms.si.edu/IRLSpec/Hippoc_erectu.htm}}</ref>

==Habitat and distribution==

The lined seahorse is found in the Atlantic Ocean, spotted as far north as Nova Scotia, Canada, and as far south as Venezuela in South America. They can be found on the east coast of America in Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and North Carolina, as well as in the waters surrounding Mexico and the Caribbean. Species found in Brazil seem to be of a different species, however, more research is needed to determine. The lined seahorse is native to the following locations: Nova Scotia, Canada, United States, Bermuda, Cuba, Mexico (Veracruz, Yucatán), Haiti, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Belize, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Guatemala, and Venezuela.

[[File:Linedseahorse.jpg|thumb|220px|left|alt=Photograph]] The species is common in depths of water up to seventy-three meters. Adults can be found swimming freely in the water column or attached to a stationary object. Juveniles usually swim near the surface.<ref name = "Florida Museum">{{Cite web | last = Bester | first = Cathleen | title = Lined Seahorse | publisher = Florida Museum of Natural History Ichthyology Department | url = http://www.flmnh.ufl.edu/fish/gallery/Descript/LinedSeahorse/linedseahorse.html}}</ref> The habitat of the lined seahorse consists of marine vegetation, such as suspended Sargassum, seagrass, sponges, and mangroves. Depending on the season, the species can be found in shallow waters or deep waters along beaches, oyster beds, and banks covered in vegetation, as well as in bays or salt marshes. Lined seahorses can often be found with their tails wrapped around crab pots.<ref name = "iucn">{{Cite web | title = ''Hippocampus erectus'' | publisher = IUCN Red List of Threatened Species Version 2011 Project Seahorse 2003 | url = http://www.iucnredlist.org/apps/redlist/details/10066/0}}</ref><ref name = Bayville /> In the winter, the seahorses are more prominent in deeper waters, versus warmer months, where they can be found in shallow waters in the various types of aquatic vegetation mentioned above.<ref name = "ChesapeakeBay">{{Cite web |title = Lined Seahorse | publisher = Chesapeake Bay Program (Bay Field Guide) | url = http://www.chesapeakbay.net/bfg_lined_seahorse.aspx?menuitem=14400}}</ref>

The temperature in which the ''H. erectus'' dwells varies with the different latitudes and has an effect on gonad development, brood size, and juvenile development and survival. Many lined seahorses experience temperature fluctuations during tides daily cycles, the different seasons of each year, and due to precipitation or runoff. Adults do have the ability to migrate to deeper waters during cold seasons. A study showed that the highest survival and growth rate of juveniles occurred at 28 to 29 degrees Celsius in captivity. In addition to temperature, there is also a large range of salinity concentration depending on the location. The most common salinity is 25 to 35 ppt. In captivity, the species is most commonly kept at 35 ppt.<ref name = "Smithsonian" /> The ''H. erectus'' is the only species of seahorse native to the Chesapeake Bay.<ref name = "Bayville" />

==Diet==
The lined seahorse utilizes its elongated snout in order to consume its prey, consisting primarily of minute [[crustaceans]], mollusks, and zoo plankton. Unfortunately, some captive parental males have been known to cannibalize small number of its own fry, or juveniles, following its release into natural habitat. In order to ambush its prey, the seahorse employs color changes to camouflage itself with its surrounding environment, locates the prey, and then jerks its head upward, forcing the prey in the right position to be sucked in through its tubular snout. The lined seahorse is highly accurate, especially if its prey is within one inch from its snout. Overall, this process is quick and accurate. A growing lined seahorse may feed continuously for up to ten hours a day, engulfing approximately 3,600 baby [[brine shrimp]].<ref name = "Gardiner" /><ref name = "Smithsonian" /><ref name = "ChesapeakeBay" />

==Predators and parasites==
[[File:Loggerhead sea turtle.jpg|thumb|220px|right|alt=Photograph|This sea turtle preys on the ''H. erectus'' species.]]
The predators of the lined seahorse include crabs, [[ray (fish)|rays]], various type of [[sea turtle]]s, skates, [[seabird]]s, sharks, tuna, and [[dolphinfish]]. Although their [[camouflage]] tactics reduce their risk of becoming prey, their poor swimming abilities increase their likelihood of being consumed by their predators, especially large fish.<ref name = "Florida Museum" /><ref name = "Bayville">{{Cite web | last = Bayville | title = Lined Seahorse | publisher = 2005 Maryland Public Television | url = http://bayville.thinkport.org/printables/sea_horse.pdf}}</ref>

There are many parasites and infections known to affect the lined seahorse, including [[ciliate]]s (Uronemamarinum), [[nematodes]], fungi, [[myxosporidian]], and [[microsporidian]]s (Glugea heraldi).<ref name = "Smithsonian" />

==Behavior==

A unique characteristic of the lined seahorse (and other species of seahorse) is their practice of monogamy: the male and female seahorses choose partners that they will continue to mate with for their lifetime.<ref name = "Project Seahorse">{{cite web | author = Project Seahorse Team" | title = Introduction to seahorses | publisher = Project Seahorse | url = http://seahorse.fisheries.ubc.ca/node/354}}</ref> The monogamous characteristics of the lined seahorse include ritual dances with their partner that they perform every morning. These dances establish their permanent relationship as mates. If a male or female lined seahorse should lose their partner for any reason, it takes time before they replace their mate.<ref name = "Gardiner" />

[[File:Lined Seahorse sideways.jpg|thumb|220px|right|alt=Photograph|The fins help guide and propel the seahorse.]] Lined seahorses are weak swimmers; they swim in an erect position. In comparison to their fins, the lined seahorse's body is too large, another reason why they are poor swimmers. They do not swim for long periods of time, nor do they travel far distances, unless they are migrating.<ref name = "Bayville" /> The lined seahorse propels its body forward with its dorsal and pectoral fins, which they move rapidly back and forth. These fins are also utilized in directing their bodies throughout the water and beat twenty to thirty times per second, making them almost invisible at first glance.<ref name = "Gardiner" /><ref name = "Bayville" />

In addition to monogamy, the lined seahorse also cues into sound-making in the mating process. The seahorses have a crown-like bony crest called a coronet located on the backside of their head at the edge of the skull. Each coronet is unique to the organism, just as a fingerprint is unique to every human.<ref name = "Bayville" /> The coronet resembles a star pattern and is attached rather loosely and has sharp edges.<ref name = "Smithsonian" /> As the seahorse lifts its head, the edge of the skull slides beneath the coronet and out when the seahorse bows its head. As the skull's edge slides beneath and out from the coronet, a clicking sound is produced. Mating seahorses swim slowly together, alternating their clicking sounds, until they embrace one another. Once the male and female seahorse embrace, the sounds from both the male and female unify, becoming indistinguishable from one another. This action creates a louder, consecutive sound, further establishing their bond.<ref name = "Gardiner" />

==Reproduction==

[[File:Lined Seahorse straight tail.jpg|thumb|220px|left|alt=Photograph|This image shows the prehensile tail utilized in reproduction by the male seahorse.]] Like all species of seahorses, the lined seahorse reproduces sexually, laying eggs every season. In addition, the male is the parent that looks after the newborn seahorses. The reproduction process begins at the initiation of the courtship process. Courtship extends for a couple of days and during this process, both the male and female may change to a pale color. The male enlarges his pouch to indicate his desire to pursue the female. Once they are established as monogamous mates though dances and clicking sounds, intercourse takes place.

During intercourse, the female sprays her eggs into the males pouch, which is called a "brood pouch", where they are fertilized and sealed. Females clutch size can be equal to or greater than one thousand and the males' brood size can range from 97 to 1,552 eggs. The number of eggs the female produces varies depending on the size of the seahorse. Six hundred and fifty eggs can be carried by a single male at one time. The eggs are 1.5 mm in diameter. When the eggs are being incubated within the male's pouch, the embryos are provided oxygen via an extensive capillary system. Through this system, the sodium and calcium levels can be altered in order to maintain homeostasis within the pouch environment. When the embryos are approaching birth, the pouch environment is very similar to the seawater. The gestation period lasts for 20–21 days. When the time finally approaches, the male latches his prehensile tail onto a supportive object while he braces back and forth, until the developed seahorses escape from the pouch. The bracing continues until all seahorses have successfully escaped the pouch. However, unhatched seahorses that have died will create a gas within the male's pouch. Soon after, the male seahorse inevitably floats to the surface, only to become easy prey in the marine food chain.<ref name = "Aquatic Community" />

Juveniles are approximately 11 mm at birth for three days and are considered embryos until they are capable of swimming on their own. Juveniles do not reach maximum size until they are 8–10 months of age. It is estimated by scientists that only about two juveniles grow up to be adults out of the hundreds that are hatched.<ref name = "Bayville" /> In captivity, the species maintained a vertical growth rate of 0.55 mm a day for 100 days. Male juveniles develop pouches when they are 5–7 months old. The juvenile seahorses quickly develop the characteristic of the adult lined seahorse. After birth, courtship begins once again. Breeding occurs in the months of May through October in the Chesapeake Bay. July is when the lined seahorse population is the greatest in Florida.<ref name = "Gardiner" /><ref name = "Smithsonian" /><ref name = "ChesapeakeBay" />

==Aquarium life==

The minimum habitat requirements for captive lined seahorses consist of a tank 18 inches vertical in height and 20 to 25 gallons for a pair, 30 to 40 gallons for two pairs. The tank should be kept at a constant temperature between 22 and 25 degrees Celsius (72 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit).<ref name = "seahorsesource" /> The ph value should remain between 8.1 and 8.4 and the specific gravity between 1.020 and 1.025.[[File:Lined Seahorse front.jpg|thumb|220px|right|alt=Photograph|In this front view of the lined seahorse, the eyes can be seen; they can move independently of one another.]][[

The lined seahorse is an easy going species and will not be a threat to other fish that could possibly be in an aquarium. The seahorse would be happiest in an environment with objects it can hide around and attach its tail to. The ''H. erectus'' species should be fed multiple times throughout the day, rather than less amount of larger meals.<ref name = "Aquatic Community">{{Cite web | title = Lined Seahorse | publisher = Aquatic Community | date = 2004 | url = http://www.aquaticcommunity.com/Sea-horses/lined.php}}</ref> In captivity, the lined seahorse is often fed live or frozen [[nauplius (larva)|nauplius]] or [[Mysis shrimp]], [[grass shrimp]], adult brine shrimp, [[gammarid]]s and [[caprellida|caprellid amphipod]]s, [[krill]] fish [[fry (biology)|fry]], and frozen krill.<ref name = "Smithsonian" />

==Obstacles==

The lined seahorse species has declined about thirty percent since ___, and is considered vulnerable in the 2003 [[IUCN]] assessment.<ref name="IUCN"/> Due to loss or harm to their habitat by pollution and coastal development, [[accidental catch]], or by purposeful catch, the lined seahorse's population is starting to dwindle. The ''H. erectus'' is a very common species of the aquarium trade, which also affects the population remaining in the wild. The lined seahorse is also used for ornamental decoration and for [[Chinese medicine]]. Despite being a popular seahorse for aquarium trade and Chinese medicine, it is only suspected that the species could be a potential candidate for commercial [[aquaculture]]. If successful, this could positively affect the population of the lined seahorse.<ref name = "Smithsonian" /><ref name = "About">{{Cite web | last = Hauter | first = Stan and Debbie | title = Lined Seahorse Profile - Facts, care info, pictures and more on H. erectus | publisher = About.com | url =http://saltaquarium.about.com/od/seahorserelatedpipefish/p/prinedseahorse.htm}}</ref><ref name = "Webster and Sedberry">{{Cite web | last2 = Sedberry | first2 = George R. | last = Webster | first = Pearse | title = Lined seahorse | url = http://saltaquarium.about.com/od/seahorserelatedpipefish/p/prinedseahorse.htm}}</ref>

{{clear}}

==References==

{{Reflist|col width=33em}}

[[Category:Hippocampus]]

[[ca:Hippocampus erectus]]
[[co:Hippocampus erectus]]
[[es:Hippocampus erectus]]
[[fr:Hippocampus erectus]]
[[nl:Hippocampus erectus]]
[[pt:Hippocampus erectus]]
[[sr:Hippocampus erectus]]

2012-01-09T14:05:17Z

Littlecass: /* Lined Seahorse */ new section

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== BLP ==

Hi
*i just added the citation on the page basit Jehangir sheikh kindly check it , and it still shows cition needed error
or just add
that is
*Daily Jung Lahore, 20 Octuber 2010, page 2, (Urdu)

== re [[User talk:Alf.laylah.wa.laylah#U.S. state bats, reptiles etc]] ==

{{Talkback|Alf.laylah.wa.laylah}}

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== ''The Signpost'': 02 January 2012 ==

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== Main page appearance: loggerhead sea turtle ==

This is a note to let the main editors of [[loggerhead sea turtle]] know that the article will be appearing as [[Wikipedia:Today's featured article|today's featured article]] on January 4, 2012. You can view the TFA blurb at [[Wikipedia:Today's featured article/January 4, 2012]]. If you prefer that the article appear as TFA on a different date, or not at all, please ask featured article director {{user|Raul654}} or his delegate {{user|Dabomb87}}, or start a discussion at [[Wikipedia talk:Today's featured article/requests]]. If the previous blurb needs tweaking, you might change it—following the instructions at [[Wikipedia:Today's featured article/requests/instructions]]. If this article needs any attention or maintenance, it would be preferable if that could be done before its appearance on the Main Page. The blurb as it stands now is below:

<blockquote>
<div style="float:left;margin:0.5em 0.9em 0.4em 0;">[[File:Caretta caretta 060417w2.jpg|100px|A loggerhead turtle at Océanopolis, Brest, France]]</div>

The '''[[loggerhead sea turtle]]''' is an [[sea turtle|oceanic turtle]] distributed throughout the world. An adult weighs around {{convert|135|kg|lb}}, with the largest specimens weighing in at more than {{convert|454|kg|lb}}. The skin ranges from yellow to brown in color, and the shell is typically reddish-brown. Found in the [[Atlantic Ocean|Atlantic]], [[Pacific Ocean|Pacific]], and [[Indian Ocean|Indian]] oceans as well as the [[Mediterranean Sea]], the loggerhead sea turtle spends most of its life in saltwater and [[estuarine]] habitats, with females briefly coming ashore to lay eggs. The loggerhead sea turtle has a low reproductive rate and a lifespan of 47–67 years. [[omnivore|Omnivorous]], the species feeds mainly on bottom dwelling [[invertebrate]]s. Its large and powerful jaws serve as an effective tool in dismantling its prey. Loggerheads are considered an [[endangered species]] and are protected by the [[International Union for the Conservation of Nature]]. [[Turtle excluder device]]s (TEDs) have been implemented in efforts to reduce mortality by providing the turtle an escape route. Loss of suitable nesting beaches and the introduction of exotic predators has also taken a toll on loggerhead populations. Efforts to restore their numbers will require international cooperation since the turtles roam vast areas of ocean and critical nesting beaches are scattered among several countries. ([[Loggerhead sea turtle|'''more...''']])
</blockquote>
[[User:UcuchaBot|UcuchaBot]] ([[User talk:UcuchaBot|talk]]) 23:01, 3 January 2012 (UTC)

== Back Again ==

Hello. If you remember, I was the student working on the [[Spotted Eagle Ray]] article. I have just a few questions. My teacher said he may open up the second semester for extra credit. I wanted to pick up the Spotted Eagle Ray again, but I really don't think it has the FA potential that some other articles do. I have been considering joining the Sand Tiger Shark article. I was wondering what your opinion on the spotted eagle ray was. Thank you! <small><span class="autosigned">— Preceding [[Wikipedia:Signatures|unsigned]] comment added by [[User:Marissa927|Marissa927]] ([[User talk:Marissa927|talk]] • [[Special:Contributions/Marissa927|contribs]]) 17:00, 5 January 2012 (UTC)</span></small> 
:Take a look at the [[WP:FACR]]. It is a no compromise list of requirements, writing has to be engaging, even brilliant; all content must be supported by high-quality reliable sources and the article has be comprehensive. On the comprehensive angle typically the aspect of a popular culture section arises. For the spotted eagle ray, it makes an appearance as Mr Ray in the film [[Finding Nemo]]. I found a reliable source (http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1755-263X.2011.00206.x/full), but not sure that is enough to put the film character(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7X8jQFuvLPs) in context. For the moment I'd recommend helping out with [[sand tiger shark]] while checking if enough is available to meet the [[WP:FACR]] criteria. Regards, [[User:SunCreator|SunCreator]] <sup>([[User talk:SunCreator|talk]])</sup> 01:13, 6 January 2012 (UTC)
:::Thank you! I read what you said to [[Savetheoceans]]. I think I'll stick with sand tiger and quoll for now. Once again, any suggestions you have are welcome! We will get to editing soon! [[User:Marissa927|Marissa927]] ([[User talk:Marissa927|talk]]) 04:21, 6 January 2012 (UTC)
::::[[User:Marissa927|Marissa927]], In group 4 the article [[Olympic marmot]] has good potential. It's a sizeable article already, well sourced and attracted the attention of [[User:TCO]]. Regards, [[User:SunCreator|SunCreator]] <sup>([[User talk:SunCreator|talk]])</sup> 17:28, 6 January 2012 (UTC)

== [[Quoll]]? ==

Hey SunCreator,
It's been a while since I last edited Wikipedia, but my teacher has offered extra credit to work on it and I really enjoyed working on it last semester. I was wondering, do you think that the quoll has potential for featured article? If it does, I am thinking about continuing my research on it. But if you don't think it does, I will move on to another topic. Thanks! --[[User:Savetheoceans|Savetheoceans]] ([[User talk:Savetheoceans|talk]]) 17:07, 5 January 2012 (UTC)

:Listen to what SC says, but I think it will be easier to get another topic up to GA than to take Quoll to FA. It's not just polishing (which is still a lot of work), but also a genus article is going to be tougher. You probably need to re-reasearch the topic, understand more about each species, have a range map breaking each species out, etc. Good luck either way![[User:TCO|TCO]] ([[User:TCO#Reviews needed|Reviews needed]]) 22:55, 5 January 2012 (UTC)

:Read [[WP:FACR]] and reply to [[User:Marissa927|Marissa927]] in the above section. The sources on quoll are already high quality. Not sure what it make of [[Unclean_animals#Implicit_list]] or [[Kinie Ger]]. According to [[Bark (utterance)]] the quoll makes a bark, that was unexpected and wants to be covered in the article. Overalll I think quoll is a decent subject to attempt FA with. Regards, [[User:SunCreator|SunCreator]] <sup>([[User talk:SunCreator|talk]])</sup> 01:13, 6 January 2012 (UTC)

::Thanks so much!I think we will begin to work on the article as soon as possible. I will make sure to add the vocalization to the behaviours section. --[[User:Savetheoceans|Savetheoceans]] ([[User talk:Savetheoceans|talk]]) 13:32, 6 January 2012 (UTC)

== archive talk page request ==

SC:

Will you please add archiving (and archive old talk) for this page [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Talk:Membrane].

P.s. Looks like you have a fan club!

[[User:TCO|TCO]] ([[User:TCO#Reviews needed|Reviews needed]]) 22:49, 5 January 2012 (UTC)

== Lined Seahorse ==

Thank you for editing the Lined seahorse article. I just completed the introduction this morning. How do you think the article looks as of right now? I appreciate your help. LittleCass 14:05, 9 January 2012 (UTC)

User talk:Ihardlythinkso

2012-01-09T14:03:27Z

Littlecass: /* Lined Seahorse */

2012-01-09T04:47:54Z

Littlecass: aquarium life info

{{Taxobox
| image = Matt.jpg
| status = VU
| status_system = iucn3.1
| status_ref= <ref name="IUCN">{{Cite web|url=http://www.iucnredlist.org/apps/redlist/details/10066/0 |title=Hippocampus erectus |accessdate=2011-12-08 |year=2011 |publisher= International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources}}</ref>
| regnum = [[Animalia]]
| phylum = [[Chordata]]
| classis = [[Actinopterygii]]
| ordo = [[Syngnathiformes]]
| familia = [[Syngnathidae]]
| genus = ''[[Seahorse|Hippocampus]]''
| species = '''''H. erectus'''''
| binomial = ''Hippocampus erectus''
| binomial_authority = Perry, 1810
}}

The '''lined seahorse''' (''Hippocampus erectus''), '''northern seahorse''' or '''spotted seahorse''' is a species of fish that belongs to the [[Syngnathidae]] family.<ref name = "fishbase">{{Cite web | last = Froese | first = R. | last2 = Pauly | first2 = D. | title = ''Hippocampus erectus Perry, 1810 Lined Seahorse'' | publisher = FishBase | url = http://www.fishbase.org/summary/speciessummary.php?id=3283}}</ref>

==Description==

[[File:Lined Seahorse front.jpg|thumb|220px|left|alt=Photograph|In this front view of the lined seahores, the eyes can be seen; they can move independently of one another.]] The lined seahorse is a diurnal species that ranges in length from 12 cm to 17 cm; the maximum length reported for the species is 19 cm. The lined seahorse is sexually dimorphic, meaning there are distinct differences in appearances of males and females; most notably the brood pouch located on the male's abdomen which it utilized in reproduction. Males are also slightly larger in size and have longer prehensile tails than the females. In the wild, the lined seahorse has a lifespan of one to four years; however, in captivity their lifespan usually reaches the full four years. Four years is the maximum age reported for the species.<ref name = "Rosamond Gifford Zoo">{{cite web | author = Rosamond Gifford Zoo Volunteers | title = Lined Seahorse | date = July 23, 2005 | url = http://www.rosamondgiffordzoo.org/assets/uploads/animals/pdf/LinedSeahorse.pdf}}</ref> They have a broad color spectrum, ranging from black, grey, brown, and green, to orange, red, and yellow. However, their colors change due to altercations in their environment, diet, anxiety or stress level, and/or mood.<ref name ="seahorsesource">{{Cite web | title = H. erectus | publisher = Seahorse Source, Inc. 2005 | accessdate = 31 October 2011 | url = http://www.seahorsesource.com/erectus.html}}</ref> The lined seahorse is brawny and upright in appearance. They have an armor-like body composed of approximately fifty bony plates. Together these bony plates form the outer skeleton of the species. It is common for the species to have white lines outlining the neck area and for tiny white dots to be present on the tail. The prehensile tail consists of numerous rings and the first, third, fifth, seventh, and eleventh may protrude farther outward than the remaining. The prehensile tail following the bony plates is utilized by the seahorse to grasp onto its environment composed of seaweed and coral. The tail curls forward and is seldom aligned. When a lined seahorse is very young (two weeks to four weeks), the tail is extremely limber. The snout length is approximately half the head length of the lined seahorse. The cheek spines, located diagonally down from the eye on either side may be single or double. In total, the lined seahorse has eleven trunk rings, 34–39 tail rings, 16–20 dorsal fin rays, and 14–18 pectoral fin rays. The pectoral fin is level with the eye on each back side of the lined seahorse's head. The dorsal fin is located on the back of the skeleton and is level with the stomach–chest area. Female dorsal fins are slightly larger than the male's and are located lower on the back. The eyes of the lined seahorse can concentrate together, or they can operate independently of one another.<ref name = "Gardiner">{{Cite web | last = Gardiner | first = Nick, University of Michigan | title = Hippocampus erectus | publisher = Animal Diversity Web | accessdate = 31 October 2011 | url = http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Hippocampus_erectus.html}}</ref> The lined seahorse may be considered sexually mature as early as four months; however, it is typically about eight months. The minimum size of a sexually mature lined seahorse is 5.6 cm.<ref name = "seahorsesource" /><ref name="Smithsonian">{{Cite web | last = Sweat | first = L.H. | title = Hippocampus erectus | publisher = Smithsonian Marine Station at Fort Pierce 2009 | url = http://www.sms.si.edu/IRLSpec/Hippoc_erectu.htm}}</ref>

:[[File:Sea Horse 2 PSF S-820006.png|thumb|This image shows the bony structure of the lined seahorse.]]

==Habitat and distribution==

The lined seahorse is found in the Atlantic Ocean, spotted as far north as Nova Scotia, Canada, and as far south as Venezuela in South America. They can be found on the east coast of America in Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and North Carolina, as well as in the waters surrounding Mexico and the Caribbean. Species found in Brazil seem to be of a different species, however, more research is needed to determine. The lined seahorse is native to the following locations: Nova Scotia, Canada, United States, Bermuda, Cuba, Mexico (Veracruz, Yucatán), Haiti, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Belize, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Guatemala, and Venezuela.

[[File:Linedseahorse.jpg|thumb|220px|left|alt=Photograph]] The species is common in depths of water up to seventy-three meters. The habitat of the lined seahorse consists of marine vegetation, such as suspended Sargassum, seagrass, sponges, and mangroves. Depending on the season, the species can be found in shallow waters or deep waters along beaches, oyster beds, and banks covered in vegetation, as well as in bays or salt marshes. Lined seahorses can often be found with their tails wrapped around crab pots.<ref name = "iucn">{{Cite web | title = ''Hippocampus erectus'' | publisher = IUCN Red List of Threatened Species Version 2011 Project Seahorse 2003 | url = http://www.iucnredlist.org/apps/redlist/details/10066/0}}</ref><ref name = Bayville /> In the winter, the seahorses are more prominent in deeper waters, versus warmer months, where they can be found in shallow waters in the various types of aquatic vegetation mentioned above.<ref name = "ChesapeakeBay">{{Cite web |title = Lined Seahorse | publisher = Chesapeake Bay Program (Bay Field Guide) | url = http://www.chesapeakbay.net/bfg_lined_seahorse.aspx?menuitem=14400}}</ref>

The temperature in which the ''H. erectus'' dwells varies with the different latitudes and has an effect on gonad development, brood size, and juvenile development and survival. Many lined seahorses experience temperature fluctuations during tides daily cycles, the different seasons of each year, and due to precipitation or runoff. Adults do have the ability to migrate to deeper waters during cold seasons. A study showed that the highest survival and growth rate of juveniles occurred at 28 to 29 degrees Celsius in captivity. In addition to temperature, there is also a large range of salinity concentration depending on the location. The most common salinity is 25 to 35 ppt. In captivity, the species is most commonly kept at 35 ppt.<ref name = "Smithsonian" /> The ''H. erectus'' is the only species of seahorse native to the Chesapeake Bay.<ref name = "Bayville" />

==Diet==
The lined seahorse utilizes its elongated snout in order to consume its prey, consisting primarily of minute [[crustaceans]], mollusks, and zoo plankton. Unfortunately, some captive parental males have been known to cannibalize small number of its own fry, or juveniles, following its release into natural habitat. In order to ambush its prey, the seahorse employs color changes to camouflage itself with its surrounding environment, locates the prey, and then jerks its head upward, forcing the prey in the right position to be sucked in through its tubular snout. The lined seahorse is highly accurate, especially if its prey is within one inch from its snout. Overall, this process is quick and accurate. A growing lined seahorse may feed continuously for up to ten hours a day, engulfing approximately 3,600 baby [[brine shrimp]].<ref name = "Gardiner" /><ref name = "Smithsonian" /><ref name = "ChesapeakeBay" />

==Predators and Parasites==
[[File:Loggerhead sea turtle.jpg|thumb|220px|left|alt=Photograph|This sea turtle preys on the ''H. erectus'' species.]]
Some of the ''H. erectus'' include crabs, rays, various type of sea turtles, skates, and sea birds. Although their camouflage tactics reduce their risk of becoming prey, their poor swimming and ability to swim increase their likelihood of being consumed by their predators, especially large fish.<ref name = "Bayville">{{Cite web | last = Bayville | title = Lined Seahorse | publisher = 2005 Maryland Public Television | url = http://bayville.thinkport.org/printables/sea_horse.pdf}}</ref>

There are many parasites and infections known to affect the lined seahorse, including ciliates (Uronemamarinum), nematodes, fungi, myxosporidian, and microsporidians (Glugea heraldi).<ref name = "Smithsonian" />

==Behavior==

A unique characteristic of the lined seahorse (and other species of seahorse) is their practice of monogamy: the male and female seahorses choose partners that they will continue to mate with for their lifetime.<ref name = "Project Seahorse">{{cite web | author = Project Seahorse Team" | title = Introduction to seahorses | publisher = Project Seahorse | url = http://seahorse.fisheries.ubc.ca/node/354}}</ref> The monogamous characteristics of the lined seahorse include ritual dances with their partner that they perform every morning. These dances establish their permanent relationship as mates. If a male or female lined seahorse should lose their partner for any reason, it takes time before they replace their mate.<ref name = "Gardiner" />

[[File:Lined Seahorse sideways.jpg|thumb|220px|right|alt=Photograph|The fins help guide and propel the seahorse.]] Lined seahorses are weak swimmers; they swim in an erect position. In comparison to their fins, the lined seahorse's body is too large, another reason why they are poor swimmers. They do not swim for long periods of time, nor do they travel far distances, unless they are migrating.<ref name = "Bayville" /> The lined seahorse propels its body forward with its dorsal and pectoral fins, which they move rapidly back and forth. These fins are also utilized in directing their bodies throughout the water and beat twenty to thirty times per second, making them almost invisible at first glance.<ref name = "Gardiner" /><ref name = "Bayville" />

In addition to monogamy, the lined seahorse also cues into sound-making in the mating process. The seahorses have a crown-like bony crest called a coronet located on the backside of their head at the edge of the skull. Each coronet is unique to the organism, just as a fingerprint is unique to every human.<ref name = "Bayville" /> The coronet resembles a star pattern and is attached rather loosely and has sharp edges.<ref name = "Smithsonian" /> As the seahorse lifts its head, the edge of the skull slides beneath the coronet and out when the seahorse bows its head. As the skull's edge slides beneath and out from the coronet, a clicking sound is produced. Mating seahorses swim slowly together, alternating their clicking sounds, until they embrace one another. Once the male and female seahorse embrace, the sounds from both the male and female unify, becoming indistinguishable from one another. This action creates a louder, consecutive sound, further establishing their bond.<ref name = "Gardiner" />

==Reproduction==

[[File:Lined Seahorse straight tail.jpg|thumb|220px|left|alt=Photograph|This image shows the prehensile tail utilized in reproduction by the male seahorse.]] Like all species of seahorses, the lined seahorse reproduces sexually, laying eggs every season. In addition, the male is the parent that looks after the newborn seahorses. The reproduction process begins at the initiation of the courtship process. Courtship extends for a couple of days and during this process, both the male and female may change to a pale color. The male enlarges his pouch to indicate his desire to pursue the female. Once they are established as monogamous mates though dances and clicking sounds, intercourse takes place.

During intercourse, the female sprays her eggs into the males pouch, which is called a "brood pouch", where they are fertilized and sealed. Females clutch size can be equal to or greater than one thousand and the males' brood size can range from 97 to 1,552 eggs. The number of eggs the female produces varies depending on the size of the seahorse. Six hundred and fifty eggs can be carried by a single male at one time. The eggs are 1.5 mm in diameter. When the eggs are being incubated within the male's pouch, the embryos are provided oxygen via an extensive capillary system. Through this system, the sodium and calcium levels can be altered in order to maintain homeostasis within the pouch environment. When the embryos are approaching birth, the pouch environment is very similar to the seawater. The gestation period lasts for 20–21 days. When the time finally approaches, the male latches his prehensile tail onto a supportive object while he braces back and forth, until the developed seahorses escape from the pouch. The bracing continues until all seahorses have successfully escaped the pouch. However, unhatched seahorses that have died will create a gas within the male's pouch. Soon after, the male seahorse inevitably floats to the surface, only to become easy prey in the marine food chain.

Juveniles are approximately 11 mm at birth for three days and are considered embryos until they are capable of swimming on their own. Juveniles do not reach maximum size until they are 8–10 months of age. It is estimated by scientists that only about two juveniles grow up to be adults out of the hundreds that are hatched.<ref name = "Bayville" /> In captivity, the species maintained a vertical growth rate of 0.55 mm a day for 100 days. Male juveniles develop pouches when they are 5–7 months old. The juvenile seahorses quickly develop the characteristic of the adult lined seahorse. After birth, courtship begins once again. Breeding occurs in the months of May through October in the Chesapeake Bay. July is when the lined seahorse population is the greatest in Florida.<ref name = "Gardiner" /><ref name = "Smithsonian" /><ref name = "ChesapeakeBay" />

==Aquarium life==

The minimum habitat requirements for captive lined seahorses consist of a tank 18 inches vertical in height and 20 to 25 gallons for a pair, 30 to 40 gallons for two pairs. The tank should be kept at a constant temperature between 22 and 25 degrees Celsius (72 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit).<ref name = "seahorsesource" /> The ph value should remain between 8.1 and 8.4 and the specific gravity between 1.020 and 1.025.

The lined seahorse is an easy going species and will not be a threat to other fish that could possibly be in an aquarium. The seahorse would be happiest in an environment with objects it can hide around and attach its tail to. The ''H. erectus'' species should be fed multiple times throughout the day, rather than less amount of larger meals. <ref name = "Aquatic Community">{{Cite web | title = Lined Seahorse | publisher = Aquatic Community | date = 2004 | url = http://www.aquaticcommunity.com/Sea-horses/lined.php}}</ref> In captivity, the lined seahorse is often fed live or frozen nauplius or Mysis shrimp, grass shrimp, adult brine shrimp, gammarids and caprellid amphipods, krillfish fry, and frozen krill. <ref name = "Smithsonian" />

{{clear}}

==References==

{{Reflist|col width=33em}}

[[Category:Hippocampus]]

[[ca:Hippocampus erectus]]
[[co:Hippocampus erectus]]
[[es:Hippocampus erectus]]
[[fr:Hippocampus erectus]]
[[nl:Hippocampus erectus]]
[[pt:Hippocampus erectus]]
[[sr:Hippocampus erectus]]

User talk:Littlecass

2012-01-06T23:27:32Z

Littlecass: /* Group review */

Lined seahorse

2012-01-06T18:20:45Z

Littlecass: /* Behavior */ fact

{{Taxobox
| image = Matt.jpg
| status = VU
| status_system = iucn3.1
| status_ref= <ref name="IUCN">{{Cite web|url=http://www.iucnredlist.org/apps/redlist/details/10066/0 |title=Hippocampus erectus |accessdate=2011-12-08 |year=2011 |publisher= International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources}}</ref>
| regnum = [[Animalia]]
| phylum = [[Chordata]]
| classis = [[Actinopterygii]]
| ordo = [[Syngnathiformes]]
| familia = [[Syngnathidae]]
| genus = ''[[Seahorse|Hippocampus]]''
| species = '''''H. erectus'''''
| binomial = ''Hippocampus erectus''
| binomial_authority = Perry, 1810
}}

The '''lined seahorse''' (''Hippocampus erectus''), '''northern seahorse''' or '''spotted seahorse''' is a species of fish that belongs to the [[Syngnathidae]] family.<ref name = "fishbase">{{Cite web | last = Froese | first = R. | last2 = Pauly | first2 = D. | title = ''Hippocampus erectus Perry, 1810 Lined Seahorse'' | publisher = FishBase | url = http://www.fishbase.org/summary/speciessummary.php?id=3283}}</ref>

==Description==

[[File:Lined_Seahorse_front.jpg|thumb|220px|left|alt=Photograph|In this front view of of the lined seahores, the eyes can be seen; they can move independently of one another.]] The lined seahorse is a diurnal species that ranges in length from 12 cm to 17 cm ; the maximum length reported for the species is 19 cm. The lined seahorse is sexually dimorphic, meaning there are distinct differences in appearances of males and females; most notably the brood pouch located on the male's abdomen which it utilized in reproduction. Males are also slightly larger in size and have longer prehensile tails than the females. In the wild, the lined seahorse has a lifespan of one to four years; however, in captivity their lifespan usually reaches the full four years. Four years is the maximum age reported for the species.<ref name = "Rosamond Gifford Zoo">{{cite web | author = Rosamond Gifford Zoo Volunteers | title = Lined Seahorse | date = July 23, 2005 | url = http://www.rosamondgiffordzoo.org/assets/uploads/animals/pdf/LinedSeahorse.pdf}}</ref> They have a broad color spectrum, ranging from black, grey, brown, and green, to orange, red, and yellow. However, their colors change due to altercations in their environment, diet, anxiety or stress level, and/or mood.<ref name ="seahorsesource">{{Cite web | title = H. erectus | publisher = Seahorse Source, Inc. 2005 | accessdate = 31 October 2011 | url = http://www.seahorsesource.com/erectus.html}}</ref> The lined seahorse is brawny and upright in appearance. They have an armor like body composed of approximately fifty bony plates. Together these bony plates form the outer skeleton of the species. It is common for the species to have white lines outlining the neck area and for tiny white dots to be present on the tail. The prehensile tail consists of numerous rings and the first, third, fifth, seventh, and eleventh may protrude farther outward than the remaining. The prehensile tail following the bony plates is utilized by the seahorse to grasp onto it's environment composed of seaweed and coral. The tail curls forward and is seldom aligned. When a lined seahorse is very young (two weeks to four weeks), the tail is extremely limber. The snout length is approximately half the head length of the lined seahorse. The cheek spines, located diagonally down from the eye on either side may be single or double. In total, the lined seahorse has eleven trunk rings, 34-39 tail rings, 16-20 dorsal fin rays, and 14-18 pectoral fin rays. The pectoral fin is level with the eye on each back side of the lined seahorse's head. The dorsal fin is located on the back of the skeleton and is level with the stomach-chest area. Females dorsal fins are slightly larger than males and is located lower on the back. The eyes of the lined seahorse can concentrate together, or they can operate independently of one another. <ref name = "Gardiner">{{Cite web | last = Gardiner | first = Nick, University of Michigan | title = Hippocampus erectus | publisher = Animal Diversity Web | accessdate = 31 October 2011 | url = http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Hippocampus_erectus.html}}</ref> The lined seahorse may be considered sexually mature as early as four months; however, it is typically about eight months. The minimum size of a sexually mature lined seahorse is 5.6 cm. <ref name = "seahorsesource" /><ref name="Smithsonian">{{Cite web | last = Sweat | first = L.H. | title = Hippocampus erectus | publisher = Smithsonian Marine Station at Fort Pierce 2009 | url = www.sms.si.edu/IRLSpec/Hippoc_erectu.htm}}</ref>

:[[File:Sea Horse 2 PSF S-820006.png|thumb|This image shows the bony structure of the lined seahorse.]]

==Habitat and distribution==

The lined seahorse is found in the Atlantic Ocean, spotted as far north as Nova Scotia, Canada, and as far south as Venezuela in South America. They can be found on the east coast of America in Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and North Carolina, as well as in the waters surrounding Mexico and the Caribbean. Species found in Brazil seem to be of a different species, however, more research is needed to determine. The lined seahorse is native to the following locations: Nova Scotia, Canada, United States, Bermuda, Cuba, Mexico (Veracruz, Yucatán), Haiti, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Belize, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Guatemala, and Venezuela.

[[File:Linedseahorse.jpg|thumb|220px|left|alt=Photograph]] The species is common in depths of water up to seventy-three meters. The habitat of the lined seahorse consists of marine vegetation, such as suspended Sargassum, seagrass, sponges, and mangroves. Depending on the season, the species can be found in shallow waters or deep waters along beaches, oyster beds, and banks covered in vegetation, as well as in bays or salt marshes. Lined seahorses can often be found with their tails wrapped around crab pots. <ref name = Bayville /> <ref name = "iucn">{{Cite web | title = ''Hippocampus erectus'' | publisher = IUCN Red List of Threatened Species Version 2011 Project Seahorse 2003 | url = http://www.iucnredlist.org/apps/redlist/details/10066/0}}</ref> In the winter, the seahorses are more prominent in deeper waters, versus warmer months, where they can be found in shallow waters in the various types of aquatic vegetation mentioned above.<ref name = "ChesapeakeBay">{{Cite web |title = Lined Seahorse | publisher = Chesapeake Bay Program (Bay Field Guide) | url = http://www.chesapeakbay.net/bfg_lined_seahorse.aspx?menuitem=14400}}</ref>

The temperature in which the ''H. erectus'' dwells varies with the different latitudes and has an effect on gonad development, brood size, and juvenile development and survival. Many lined seahorses experience temperature fluctuations during tides daily cycles, the different seasons of each year, and due to precipitation or runoff. Adults do have the ability to migrate to deeper waters during cold seasons. A study showed that the highest survival and growth rate of juveniles occurred at 28 to 29 degrees Celsius in captivity. In addition to temperature, there is also a large range of salinity concentration depending on the location. The most common salinity is 25 to 35 ppt. In captivity, the species is most commonly kept at 35 ppt. <ref name = "Smithsonian" /> The ''H. erectus'' is the only species of seahorse native to the Chesapeake Bay. <ref name = "Bayville" />

==Diet==
The lined seahorse utilizes its elongated snout in order to consume its prey, consisting primarily of minute [[crustaceans]], mollusks, and zoo plankton. Unfortunately, some captive parental males have been known to cannibalize small number of its own fry, or juveniles, following its release into natural habitat. In order to ambush its prey, the seahorse employs color changes to camouflage itself with its surrounding environment, locates the prey, and then jerks its head upward, forcing the prey in the right position to be sucked in through its tubular snout. The lined seahorse is highly accurate, especially if its prey is within one inch from its snout. Overall, this process is quick and accurate. A growing lined seahorse may feed continuously for up to ten hours a day, engulfing approximately 3,600 baby [[brine shrimp]]. <ref name = "Gardiner" /><ref name = "ChesapeakeBay" /> <ref name = "Smithsonian" />

==Predators and Parasites==

Some of the ''H. erectus'' include crabs, rays, various type of sea turtles, skates, and sea birds. Although their camouflage tactics reduce their risk of becoming prey, their poor swimming and ability to swim increase their likelihood of being consumed by their predators, especially large fish. <ref name = "Bayville">{{Cite web | last = Bayville | title = Lined Seahorse | publisher = 2005 Maryland Public Television | url = http://bayville.thinkport.org/printables/sea_horse.pdf}}</ref> [[File:Loggerhead_sea_turtle.jpg|thumb|220px|left|alt=Photograph|This sea turtle preys on the ''H. erectus'' species.]]

There are many parasites and infections known to affect the lined seahorse, including ciliates (Uronemamarinum), nematodes, fungi, myxosporidian, and microsporidians (Glugea heraldi). <ref name = "Smithsonian" />

==Behavior==

A unique characteristic of the lined seahorse (and other species of seahorse) is their practice of monogamy: the male and female seahorses choose partners that they will continue to mate with for their lifetime.<ref name = "Project Seahorse">{{cite web | author = Project Seahorse Team" | title = Introduction to seahorses | publisher = Project Seahorse | url = http://seahorse.fisheries.ubc.ca/node/354}}</ref> The monogamous characteristics of the lined seahorse include ritual dances with their partner that they perform every morning. These dances establish their permanent relationship as mates. If a male or female lined seahorse should lose their partner for any reason, it takes time before they replace their mate.<ref name = "Gardiner" />

[[File:Lined_Seahorse_sideways.jpg|thumb|220px|right|alt=Photograph|The fins help guide and propel the seahorse.]] Lined seahorses are weak swimmers; they swim in an erect position. In comparison to their fins, the lined seahorse's body is too large, another reason why they are poor swimmers. They do not swim for long periods of time, nor do they travel far distances, unless they are migrating. <ref name = "Bayville" /ref> The lined seahorse propels its body forward with its dorsal and pectoral fins, which they move rapidly back and forth. These fins are also utilized in directing their bodies throughout the water and beat twenty to thirty times per second, making them almost invisible at first glance. <ref name = "Bayville" /> <ref name = "Gardiner" />

In addition to monogamy, the lined seahorse also cues into sound-making in the mating process. The seahorses have a crown-like bony crest called a coronet located on the backside of their head at the edge of the skull. Each coronet is unique to the organism, just as a fingerprint is unique to every human. <ref name = "Bayville" />The coronet resembles a star pattern and is attached rather loosely and has sharp edges. <ref name = "Smithsonian" /> As the seahorse lifts its head, the edge of the skull slides beneath the coronet and out when the seahorse bows its head. As the skull's edge slides beneath and out from the coronet, a clicking sound is produced. Mating seahorses swim slowly together, alternating their clicking sounds, until they embrace one another. Once the male and female seahorse embrace, the sounds from both the male and female unify, becoming indistinguishable from one another. This action creates a louder, consecutive sound, further establishing their bond.<ref name = "Gardiner" />

==Reproduction==

[[File:Lined_Seahorse_straight_tail.jpg|thumb|220px|left|alt=Photograph|This image shows the prehensile tail utilized in reproduction by the male seahorse.]] Like all species of seahorses, the lined seahorse reproduces sexually, laying eggs every season. In addition, the male is the parent that looks after the newborn seahorses. The reproduction process begins at the initiation of the courtship process. Courtship extends for a couple of days and during this process, both the male and female may change to a pale color. The male enlarges his pouch to indicate his desire to pursue the female. Once they are established as monogamous mates though dances and clicking sounds, intercourse takes place.

During intercourse, the female sprays her eggs into the males pouch, which is called a "brood pouch," where they are fertilized and sealed. Females clutch size can be equal to or greater than one thousand and the males' brood size can range from 97 to 1,552 eggs. The number of eggs the female produces varies depending on the size of the seahorse. Six hundred and fifty eggs can be carried by a single male at one time. The eggs are 1.5 mm in diameter. When the eggs are being incubated within the male's pouch, the embryos are provided oxygen via an extensive capillary system. Through this system, the sodium and calcium levels can be altered in order to maintain homeostasis within the pouch environment. When the embryos are approaching birth, the pouch environment is very similar to the seawater. The gestation period lasts for 20-21 days. When the time finally approaches, the male latches his prehensile tail onto a supportive object while he braces back and forth, until the developed seahorses escape from the pouch. The bracing continues until all seahorses have successfully escaped the pouch. However, unhatched seahorses that have died will create a gas within the male's pouch. Soon after, the male seahorse inevitably floats to the surface, only to become easy prey in the marine food chain.

Juveniles are approximately 11 mm at birth for three days and are considered embryos until they are capable of swimming on their own. Juveniles do not reach maximum size until they are 8–10 months of age. It is estimated by scientists that only about two juveniles grow up to be adults out of the hundreds that are hatched. <ref name = "Bayville" /> In captivity, the species maintained a vertical growth rate of 0.55 mm a day for 100 days. Male juveniles develop pouches when they are 5 to 7 months old. The juvenile seahorses quickly develop the characteristic of the adult lined seahorse. After birth, courtship begins once again. Breeding occurs in the months of May through October in the Chesapeake Bay. July is when the lined seahorse population is the greatest in Florida. <ref name = "ChesapeakeBay" /> <ref name = "Gardiner" /> <ref name = "Smithsonian" />

==Aquarium life==

The minimum habitat requirements for captive lined seahorses consist of a tank 18 inches vertical in height and 20 to 25 gallons for a pair, 30 to 40 gallons for two pairs. The tank should be kept at a constant temperature between 22 and 25 degrees Celsius (72 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit).<ref name = "seahorsesource" />

{{clear}}

==References==

{{Reflist|col width=33em}}

[[Category:Hippocampus]]

[[ca:Hippocampus erectus]]
[[co:Hippocampus erectus]]
[[es:Hippocampus erectus]]
[[fr:Hippocampus erectus]]
[[nl:Hippocampus erectus]]
[[pt:Hippocampus erectus]]
[[sr:Hippocampus erectus]]

Lined seahorse

2012-01-06T17:48:13Z

Littlecass: /* Habitat and distribution */ added fact

{{Taxobox
| image = Matt.jpg
| status = VU
| status_system = iucn3.1
| status_ref= <ref name="IUCN">{{Cite web|url=http://www.iucnredlist.org/apps/redlist/details/10066/0 |title=Hippocampus erectus |accessdate=2011-12-08 |year=2011 |publisher= International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources}}</ref>
| regnum = [[Animalia]]
| phylum = [[Chordata]]
| classis = [[Actinopterygii]]
| ordo = [[Syngnathiformes]]
| familia = [[Syngnathidae]]
| genus = ''[[Seahorse|Hippocampus]]''
| species = '''''H. erectus'''''
| binomial = ''Hippocampus erectus''
| binomial_authority = Perry, 1810
}}

The '''lined seahorse''' (''Hippocampus erectus''), '''northern seahorse''' or '''spotted seahorse''' is a species of fish that belongs to the [[Syngnathidae]] family.<ref name = "fishbase">{{Cite web | last = Froese | first = R. | last2 = Pauly | first2 = D. | title = ''Hippocampus erectus Perry, 1810 Lined Seahorse'' | publisher = FishBase | url = http://www.fishbase.org/summary/speciessummary.php?id=3283}}</ref>

==Description==

[[File:Lined_Seahorse_front.jpg|thumb|220px|left|alt=Photograph|In this front view of of the lined seahores, the eyes can be seen; they can move independently of one another.]] The lined seahorse is a diurnal species that ranges in length from 12 cm to 17 cm ; the maximum length reported for the species is 19 cm. The lined seahorse is sexually dimorphic, meaning there are distinct differences in appearances of males and females; most notably the brood pouch located on the male's abdomen which it utilized in reproduction. Males are also slightly larger in size and have longer prehensile tails than the females. In the wild, the lined seahorse has a lifespan of one to four years; however, in captivity their lifespan usually reaches the full four years. Four years is the maximum age reported for the species.<ref name = "Rosamond Gifford Zoo">{{cite web | author = Rosamond Gifford Zoo Volunteers | title = Lined Seahorse | date = July 23, 2005 | url = http://www.rosamondgiffordzoo.org/assets/uploads/animals/pdf/LinedSeahorse.pdf}}</ref> They have a broad color spectrum, ranging from black, grey, brown, and green, to orange, red, and yellow. However, their colors change due to altercations in their environment, diet, anxiety or stress level, and/or mood.<ref name ="seahorsesource">{{Cite web | title = H. erectus | publisher = Seahorse Source, Inc. 2005 | accessdate = 31 October 2011 | url = http://www.seahorsesource.com/erectus.html}}</ref> The lined seahorse is brawny and upright in appearance. They have an armor like body composed of approximately fifty bony plates. Together these bony plates form the outer skeleton of the species. It is common for the species to have white lines outlining the neck area and for tiny white dots to be present on the tail. The prehensile tail consists of numerous rings and the first, third, fifth, seventh, and eleventh may protrude farther outward than the remaining. The prehensile tail following the bony plates is utilized by the seahorse to grasp onto it's environment composed of seaweed and coral. The tail curls forward and is seldom aligned. When a lined seahorse is very young (two weeks to four weeks), the tail is extremely limber. The snout length is approximately half the head length of the lined seahorse. The cheek spines, located diagonally down from the eye on either side may be single or double. In total, the lined seahorse has eleven trunk rings, 34-39 tail rings, 16-20 dorsal fin rays, and 14-18 pectoral fin rays. The pectoral fin is level with the eye on each back side of the lined seahorse's head. The dorsal fin is located on the back of the skeleton and is level with the stomach-chest area. Females dorsal fins are slightly larger than males and is located lower on the back. The eyes of the lined seahorse can concentrate together, or they can operate independently of one another. <ref name = "Gardiner">{{Cite web | last = Gardiner | first = Nick, University of Michigan | title = Hippocampus erectus | publisher = Animal Diversity Web | accessdate = 31 October 2011 | url = http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Hippocampus_erectus.html}}</ref> The lined seahorse may be considered sexually mature as early as four months; however, it is typically about eight months. The minimum size of a sexually mature lined seahorse is 5.6 cm. <ref name = "seahorsesource" /><ref name="Smithsonian">{{Cite web | last = Sweat | first = L.H. | title = Hippocampus erectus | publisher = Smithsonian Marine Station at Fort Pierce 2009 | url = www.sms.si.edu/IRLSpec/Hippoc_erectu.htm}}</ref>

:[[File:Sea Horse 2 PSF S-820006.png|thumb|This image shows the bony structure of the lined seahorse.]]

==Habitat and distribution==

The lined seahorse is found in the Atlantic Ocean, spotted as far north as Nova Scotia, Canada, and as far south as Venezuela in South America. They can be found on the east coast of America in Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and North Carolina, as well as in the waters surrounding Mexico and the Caribbean. Species found in Brazil seem to be of a different species, however, more research is needed to determine. The lined seahorse is native to the following locations: Nova Scotia, Canada, United States, Bermuda, Cuba, Mexico (Veracruz, Yucatán), Haiti, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Belize, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Guatemala, and Venezuela.

[[File:Linedseahorse.jpg|thumb|220px|left|alt=Photograph]] The species is common in depths of water up to seventy-three meters. The habitat of the lined seahorse consists of marine vegetation, such as suspended Sargassum, seagrass, sponges, and mangroves. Depending on the season, the species can be found in shallow waters or deep waters along beaches, oyster beds, and banks covered in vegetation, as well as in bays or salt marshes. Lined seahorses can often be found with their tails wrapped around crab pots. <ref name = Bayville /> <ref name = "iucn">{{Cite web | title = ''Hippocampus erectus'' | publisher = IUCN Red List of Threatened Species Version 2011 Project Seahorse 2003 | url = http://www.iucnredlist.org/apps/redlist/details/10066/0}}</ref> In the winter, the seahorses are more prominent in deeper waters, versus warmer months, where they can be found in shallow waters in the various types of aquatic vegetation mentioned above.<ref name = "ChesapeakeBay">{{Cite web |title = Lined Seahorse | publisher = Chesapeake Bay Program (Bay Field Guide) | url = http://www.chesapeakbay.net/bfg_lined_seahorse.aspx?menuitem=14400}}</ref>

The temperature in which the ''H. erectus'' dwells varies with the different latitudes and has an effect on gonad development, brood size, and juvenile development and survival. Many lined seahorses experience temperature fluctuations during tides daily cycles, the different seasons of each year, and due to precipitation or runoff. Adults do have the ability to migrate to deeper waters during cold seasons. A study showed that the highest survival and growth rate of juveniles occurred at 28 to 29 degrees Celsius in captivity. In addition to temperature, there is also a large range of salinity concentration depending on the location. The most common salinity is 25 to 35 ppt. In captivity, the species is most commonly kept at 35 ppt. <ref name = "Smithsonian" /> The ''H. erectus'' is the only species of seahorse native to the Chesapeake Bay. <ref name = "Bayville" />

==Diet==
The lined seahorse utilizes its elongated snout in order to consume its prey, consisting primarily of minute [[crustaceans]], mollusks, and zoo plankton. Unfortunately, some captive parental males have been known to cannibalize small number of its own fry, or juveniles, following its release into natural habitat. In order to ambush its prey, the seahorse employs color changes to camouflage itself with its surrounding environment, locates the prey, and then jerks its head upward, forcing the prey in the right position to be sucked in through its tubular snout. The lined seahorse is highly accurate, especially if its prey is within one inch from its snout. Overall, this process is quick and accurate. A growing lined seahorse may feed continuously for up to ten hours a day, engulfing approximately 3,600 baby [[brine shrimp]]. <ref name = "Gardiner" /><ref name = "ChesapeakeBay" /> <ref name = "Smithsonian" />

==Predators and Parasites==

Some of the ''H. erectus'' include crabs, rays, various type of sea turtles, skates, and sea birds. Although their camouflage tactics reduce their risk of becoming prey, their poor swimming and ability to swim increase their likelihood of being consumed by their predators, especially large fish. <ref name = "Bayville">{{Cite web | last = Bayville | title = Lined Seahorse | publisher = 2005 Maryland Public Television | url = http://bayville.thinkport.org/printables/sea_horse.pdf}}</ref> [[File:Loggerhead_sea_turtle.jpg|thumb|220px|left|alt=Photograph|This sea turtle preys on the ''H. erectus'' species.]]

There are many parasites and infections known to affect the lined seahorse, including ciliates (Uronemamarinum), nematodes, fungi, myxosporidian, and microsporidians (Glugea heraldi). <ref name = "Smithsonian" />

==Behavior==

A unique characteristic of the lined seahorse (and other species of seahorse) is their practice of monogamy: the male and female seahorses choose partners that they will continue to mate with for their lifetime.<ref name = "Project Seahorse">{{cite web | author = Project Seahorse Team" | title = Introduction to seahorses | publisher = Project Seahorse | url = http://seahorse.fisheries.ubc.ca/node/354}}</ref> The monogamous characteristics of the lined seahorse include ritual dances with their partner that they perform every morning. These dances establish their permanent relationship as mates. If a male or female lined seahorse should lose their partner for any reason, it takes time before they replace their mate.<ref name = "Gardiner" />

[[File:Lined_Seahorse_sideways.jpg|thumb|220px|right|alt=Photograph|The fins help guide and propel the seahorse.]] Lined seahorses are weak swimmers; hence why they use their snouts to suck in their prey since they are not speedy enough to hunt or chase. The lined seahorse propels its body forward with its dorsal and pectoral fins, which they move rapidly back and forth. These fins are also utilized in directing their bodies throughout the water and beat twenty to thirty times per second, making them almost invisible at first glance. <ref name = "Bayville" /> <ref name = "Gardiner" />

In addition to monogamy, the lined seahorse also cues into sound-making in the mating process. The seahorses have a crown-like bony crest called a coronet located on the backside of their head at the edge of the skull. Each coronet is unique to the organism, just as a fingerprint is unique to every human. <ref name = "Bayville" />The coronet resembles a star pattern and is attached rather loosely and has sharp edges. <ref name = "Smithsonian" /> As the seahorse lifts its head, the edge of the skull slides beneath the coronet and out when the seahorse bows its head. As the skull's edge slides beneath and out from the coronet, a clicking sound is produced. Mating seahorses swim slowly together, alternating their clicking sounds, until they embrace one another. Once the male and female seahorse embrace, the sounds from both the male and female unify, becoming indistinguishable from one another. This action creates a louder, consecutive sound, further establishing their bond.<ref name = "Gardiner" />

==Reproduction==

[[File:Lined_Seahorse_straight_tail.jpg|thumb|220px|left|alt=Photograph|This image shows the prehensile tail utilized in reproduction by the male seahorse.]] Like all species of seahorses, the lined seahorse reproduces sexually, laying eggs every season. In addition, the male is the parent that looks after the newborn seahorses. The reproduction process begins at the initiation of the courtship process. Courtship extends for a couple of days and during this process, both the male and female may change to a pale color. The male enlarges his pouch to indicate his desire to pursue the female. Once they are established as monogamous mates though dances and clicking sounds, intercourse takes place.

During intercourse, the female sprays her eggs into the males pouch, which is called a "brood pouch," where they are fertilized and sealed. Females clutch size can be equal to or greater than one thousand and the males' brood size can range from 97 to 1,552 eggs. The number of eggs the female produces varies depending on the size of the seahorse. Six hundred and fifty eggs can be carried by a single male at one time. The eggs are 1.5 mm in diameter. When the eggs are being incubated within the male's pouch, the embryos are provided oxygen via an extensive capillary system. Through this system, the sodium and calcium levels can be altered in order to maintain homeostasis within the pouch environment. When the embryos are approaching birth, the pouch environment is very similar to the seawater. The gestation period lasts for 20-21 days. When the time finally approaches, the male latches his prehensile tail onto a supportive object while he braces back and forth, until the developed seahorses escape from the pouch. The bracing continues until all seahorses have successfully escaped the pouch. However, unhatched seahorses that have died will create a gas within the male's pouch. Soon after, the male seahorse inevitably floats to the surface, only to become easy prey in the marine food chain.

Juveniles are approximately 11 mm at birth for three days and are considered embryos until they are capable of swimming on their own. Juveniles do not reach maximum size until they are 8–10 months of age. It is estimated by scientists that only about two juveniles grow up to be adults out of the hundreds that are hatched. <ref name = "Bayville" /> In captivity, the species maintained a vertical growth rate of 0.55 mm a day for 100 days. Male juveniles develop pouches when they are 5 to 7 months old. The juvenile seahorses quickly develop the characteristic of the adult lined seahorse. After birth, courtship begins once again. Breeding occurs in the months of May through October in the Chesapeake Bay. July is when the lined seahorse population is the greatest in Florida. <ref name = "ChesapeakeBay" /> <ref name = "Gardiner" /> <ref name = "Smithsonian" />

==Aquarium life==

The minimum habitat requirements for captive lined seahorses consist of a tank 18 inches vertical in height and 20 to 25 gallons for a pair, 30 to 40 gallons for two pairs. The tank should be kept at a constant temperature between 22 and 25 degrees Celsius (72 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit).<ref name = "seahorsesource" />

{{clear}}

==References==

{{Reflist|col width=33em}}

[[Category:Hippocampus]]

[[ca:Hippocampus erectus]]
[[co:Hippocampus erectus]]
[[es:Hippocampus erectus]]
[[fr:Hippocampus erectus]]
[[nl:Hippocampus erectus]]
[[pt:Hippocampus erectus]]
[[sr:Hippocampus erectus]]

Lined seahorse

2012-01-06T17:39:16Z

2012-01-05T16:50:22Z

Littlecass: edited habitat

Lined seahorse

2012-01-04T18:16:56Z

Littlecass: added a fact