Ever heard of the pygmy seahorses? This tiny seahorse, measuring less than 2 centimeters, is known to be one of the world’s smallest seahorses.
Aside from their minuscule size, they are also known for their unique ability to camouflage with their surroundings, which makes them a prized find for underwater photographers and macro divers.
Eager to learn more about them? From their fascinating biology to the best dive spots to encounter them, this guide dives deep into the wonderful world of pygmy seahorses!
What are Pygmy Seahorses?
The pygmy seahorse is a tiny species of seahorse which are known for their remarkable ability to blend in with their surroundings. Small in size, these creatures are found in coral reefs, particularly around gorgonian sea fans. This is because their coloration and texture closely mimic the coral, which makes them almost invisible.
Fun Facts about Pygmy Seahorses
1. Master of Disguise
The pygmy seahorse is an expert at camouflaging. They have the ability to imitate the texture, color, and even the tiny polyps of gorgonian sea fans they inhabit. Coupled with their small size, they are nearly invisible for divers and predators to spot.
2. They are Very, Very Small
Most pygmy seahorses are smaller than 2 centimeters, about the size of a grain of rice! In fact, the smallest seahorse species, Satomi’s pygmy seahorse (Hippocampus satomiae), has an average size of around 13 millimeters! Despite their size, these creatures play a big role in their marine ecosystems.
3. Species Diversity
There are at least seven known species of pygmy seahorses. Some of these include the Bargibant’s pygmy seahorse, Denise’s pygmy seahorse, Satomi’s pygmy seahorse, and Pontoh’s pygmy seahorse, each with their own distinct habitats and traits.
4. A Favourite among Underwater Photographers
Though these colorful seahorses are quite hard to spot in the wild, these creatures are a favourite among many divers and underwater photographers. Successfully photographing one is considered a significant achievement in underwater photography.
5. Pygmy Seahorse Lifespan
Though the exact lifespan of pygmy seahorses is not definitely known, as studying these creatures in the wild is challenging, it is estimated that they could live up to 2 years in their natural habitat. This estimation is based on observations of other small seahorse species.
Where to Find Pygmy Seahorses
The pygmy seahorses can be found in a specific area of Asia that is located within the Coral Triangle, which are Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Papua New Guinea, and also Australia.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown of their locations:
1. Indonesia
In Indonesia, you can find these seahorses in areas like Bali, Lembeh Strait, Wakatobi, South Gili, and Raja Ampat. In fact, Raja Ampat is known as the home to one of the highest pygmy seahorse populations in the world. The extremely rare Satomi’s pygmy seahorse can also be found in Raja Ampat.
2. Papua New Guinea
Milne Bay, Alotau Region, and Witu Islands are generally known as the best places in PNG to encounter these seahorses. With low levels of tourism and high conservation efforts, PNG is the place to go if you seek a quieter dive experience.
3. The Philippines
The best places to find pygmy seahorses in the Philippines would be in Anilao and the Tubbataha Reef. You can spot the Bargibant’s, Denise’s, Pontoh’s, Severn’s, and Satomi’s pygmy seahorse in the waters around these regions.
4. Australia
Home to the Great Barrier Reef and the Coral Sea, Australia also offers ample opportunities to encounter pygmy seahorses in the wild. Just be sure to visit between June and November, as the weather is exceptional for diving during this time of the year.
5. Malaysia
In Malaysia, pygmy seahorses are often spotted on Mabul Island, Kapalai Island, and, occasionally, Sipadan Island. Dive sites in Malaysia are often pristine and, in some sites, the waters are calm, making them perfect for underwater photography.
Many pygmy seahorse species, such as the Bargibant’s, live exclusively on gorgonian corals, so be sure to look out for this type of corals during your dive to help you find these creatures. Additionally, some species, like the Pontoh and Satomi pygmy seahorses, inhabit seagrass beds and algae rather than soft corals.
Important Tips for Pygmy Seahorse Photography
1. Learn How to Spot Them
First thing first, you must know how to spot these tiny creatures in the ocean if you want to successfully take a picture of them. These seahorses are masters of camouflage, but there are signs you can look out for to identify them.
For instance, you can look for subtle signs like tiny bumps of the corals that match the seahorses’s color and texture. In addition, dive guides are usually experienced in finding them, so follow their cues and pay attention to their instructions.
2. Use the Right Equipment
Having the right equipment can make sure that your pictures turn out great. You’ll want to bring a good-quality macro lens, or, if you’re using a compact camera, make sure that it has a good macro mode for close-up shots.
You’re also recommended to bring a focus light. This object can help illuminate the seahorse and assist your camera in capturing pictures with a sharp focus.
3. Perfect Your Buoyancy Control
You should also make sure that you’ve perfected your buoyancy control. Pygmy seahorses are tiny and they live in delicate coral environments, so you need to maintain excellent buoyancy control to avoid accidentally damaging their habitat or disturbing them.
4. Approach Slowly and Minimize Disturbance
Move slowly and steadily so you don’t startle the seahorse. Sudden movements or loud noises from equipment can stress them. Additionally, be sure to use a low-powered light, as their eyes are quite sensitive to bright light. This also means you should avoid shining lights directly at them for extended periods.
5. Be Patient and Persistent
Spotting pygmy seahorses can be a challenge due to their size and camouflage, so it may take some time before you can encounter them. Once you find one, take your time to compose your shot carefully.
Other Macro Critters You Can Spot Alongside Pygmy Seahorses
As you explore the pygmy seahorse’s habitat, you may encounter other fascinating macro critters. For instance, the nudibranchs, frogfish, decorator crabs, and harlequin fish. Aside from these creatures, you should also keep an eye out for ornate ghost pipefish and mandarinfish, as they also share the same reef ecosystem.
Plan Your Next Macro Dive with Solitude World’s Liveaboard and Resorts
Once you’ve made enough preparations and planning, it’s time to book your dive trip to encounter the pygmy seahorses! If you’re looking for a trusty dive resort or liveaboard diving, look no further than Solitude World’s Liveaboard and Resorts!
Our Solitude Acacia and Solitude Lembeh Resorts, which are located in Anilao and Lembeh, respectively, provide the ideal base for diving and pygmy seahorse encounters! Our resorts also provide world-class amenities and underwater photography workshops that you can use to hone your skills to make sure you take the best pictures during your trip.
Additionally, our liveaboards, Solitude One and Solitude Adventurer, can take you to some of the best diving spots in Indonesia and the Philippines, including Raja Ampat and the Tubbataha Reef. Certified PADI-guides are available to help you spot small critters in the ocean!
What are you waiting for? Book your next diving adventure with us here today!