Is my Erectus sick?

[mjg1961]

I recently noticed a reddish-brown coloring on the back of the male's head running from about the first trunk ring to the superior trunk ridge (according to my anotomy chart). It's acting normal and eating great. Should I be concerned? Sorry the picture is not the greatest (phone camera with moving target!)

 

[rayjay]

Try brushing it off with a soft brush as it may be algae/cyano and not really a problem.

 

[namxas]

Looks like cyano to me too...SH often grow algae on their backs in the wild due to their sedentary nature. This also aids in their camouflage.

If it really bothers you, you can brush it off very gently with a soft "baby" toothbrush. Otherwise, it will likely come off on its own, or the SH will rinse it off in the flow or bubble stream.

 

[mjg1961]

You know, I never thought about that but it makes perfect sense. I was getting worried. I've been doing reef for about 8 years but I'm new to seahorses (5 months) and I'm already hooked on them. They're amazing. Thanks for the advice.