Seahorse Newbie Questions...

[Blue777]

Hello all,

I am new to keeping seahorses, and have several questions.

1. I was told these seahorses were H. Erectus, however, they do not closely resemble H. Erectus pictures that I've seen on the Internet. Can someone assure me that these are indeed H. Erectus?

2. These seahorses were unsexed when I purchased them, however, I believe I have a male and a female. (Of course I'm only guesstimating based upon their shape. Has anyone else have more experience with sexing seahorses? I've attempted to study their anal fins with no success at telling a difference.)

3. Will these seahorses brighten up after I get better lighting and brighter colors in their tank? These two were sharing a tank with some golden colored ones, and I've heard that seahorses can change colors.

Thanks in advance!

 

[iluvmyfishes]

I can't open your pics. Seahorses can change color. Look for a smooth pouch area on the male.

 

[Protoavis]

1. Pictures don't show for some reason
2. Sexing is easy, males are smooth and fleshy in the front lower area (pouch) females aren't (it's really obvious when you know what you're looking for)
3. They have chromatophores like squid and octopus they can and will change colour for any reason they want to. Generally bright surroundings result in brighter colours but really they'll be what ever colour they want to be, you can't really control it.