Pot Belly Seahorse

The Pot Belly Seahorse is the largest commonly kept seahorse species, reaching an impressive fourteen inches in length with a distinctive rounded, prominent belly that gives it its common name. This robust species is native to the temperate waters of southeastern Australia and New Zealand, making it unique among aquarium seahorses in its preference for cooler water temperatures. Its large size, relative hardiness, and successful captive breeding programs have made it one of the most popular seahorse species for dedicated seahorse keepers.

In the wild, Pot Belly Seahorses inhabit seagrass beds, sponge gardens, rocky reefs, and even man-made structures such as jetty pylons and mooring lines in temperate Australian and New Zealand waters. They are found at depths ranging from shallow subtidal areas to over 100 meters. Their large size allows them to withstand stronger currents than most seahorse species, and they are more robust and active swimmers than their smaller tropical relatives. Color variations range from brown and gray to yellow, orange, and even purple, with the ability to change color over time.

The Pot Belly Seahorse is considered one of the hardiest seahorse species available, making it an excellent choice for aquarists entering the world of seahorse keeping. Captive-bred specimens are widely available and readily accept frozen mysis shrimp. The key difference from tropical seahorse keeping is the temperature requirement: this species thrives at 64 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit, significantly cooler than a typical tropical reef. A chiller may be necessary in warm climates. Despite the temperature constraint, its hardiness, large size, and engaging personality make it highly rewarding.