|
Leafy
Seadragons
Photo
© K.B. Sandved/Visuals Unlimited
| Scientific
Name |
Phycodurus
eques |
| Body |
Adult
leafy seadragons are green to yellow-brown in colour with
thin, dark edged pale bands. Colour may vary according
to individuals and depth. Leafy seadragons have several
long sharp spines along the sides of the body and, unlike
weedy seadragons, the eyes are located slightly above
the snout. |
| Size/Age |
Leafy
seadragons grow to about 430 mm. |
| Reproduction |
As
in seahorses, seadragons reverse roles when rearing young.
The female lays her eggs under the male’s tail. He
has the responsibility of looking after the eggs. Eggs
remain under the adult male’s tail for about two
months, then hatch. The juveniles grow rapidly, attaining
a size of about 70 mm after just three weeks. While they
have been found in depths of up to 50 m, they are more
often seen in shallow coastal waters. |
|
|
-
return to index Seahorses
-
|
