Seahorse: The Male Animal That Can Give Birth
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14 July 2024
Seahorses are fascinating marine creatures known for their unique reproductive process, where the males give birth
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This remarkable trait sets them apart from most other animals and has captured the interest of scientists and the public alike
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Seahorses belong to the genus Hippocampus, which derives its name from the Greek words "hippos" (horse) and "kampos" (sea monster)
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Unlike most fish, seahorses swim upright and can manoeuvre with great precision using their dorsal and pectoral fins
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Seahorse courtship involves an elaborate dance where the male and female intertwine tails and swim together, often changing colours
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During mating, the female deposits her eggs into a specialized brood pouch located on the male's abdomen
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Seahorse fathers will carry the eggs in a special brood pouch for up to four weeks before giving birth
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During this time, the male regulates the salinity of the fluid inside the pouch to match the surrounding seawater, preparing the offspring for life outside the pouch
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When the embryos are fully developed, the male undergoes muscular contractions to expel the young seahorses from the pouch
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