Orange Reidi Seahorse (Hippocampus reidi)

Max Size: 7 inches
Diet: Carnivore
Temperature: 72-78 degrees
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: With Caution. Will be harmed by stinging corals.
Minimum Tank Size: 55 gallons

The Reidi Seahorse, also known as the Longsnout Seahorse, is native to the Western Caribbean. One fascinating characteristic of this seahorse is its ability to exhibit color changes in response to its environment, making it a visually captivating addition to any aquarium.

For optimal care, the Reidi Seahorse thrives when kept as a mated pair or in a small group of its own kind within a species-only aquarium of at least 30 gallons. A taller tank, with a minimum height of 16 inches, is recommended to ensure good water circulation, which is essential for their well-being. Peaceful tankmates, such as gobies, ocellaris and percula clowns, and firefish, are suitable companions. However, aggressive, territorial, or fast-moving fish should be avoided as they do not make good tankmates.

During the mating process, the male Reidi Seahorse puts on an impressive display of color changes, energetic pouch displays, and graceful dances to impress the female. If the female is receptive, they will entwine tails, dance, and promenade together, and she will deposit as many as 600 eggs into the male's pouch. Approximately 14 days later, the male gives birth to 50-400 perfectly formed miniature replicas of the pair.

To ensure proper feeding, it is crucial to keep fast and aggressive fish away from the Reidi Seahorse, as they may out-compete it for food. When introduced to the aquarium, using live saltwater feeder shrimp can entice the seahorse to eat. They primarily feed on amphipods and other small crustaceans found in live rock. Additionally, they will accept vitamin-enriched adult brine shrimp, although it should not make up the majority of their diet. As slow and deliberate feeders, they prefer two or more small feedings per day.

Seahorses have unique habits, often clinging to seagrass with their prehensile tails instead of swimming. These exceptional features and behaviors make the Reidi Seahorse one of the most spectacular fish that can be kept in a home aquarium.