An uncertain future for seahorse aquaculture in conservation and economic contexts

Abstract

Seahorses (family Syngnathidae, genus Hippocampus) have set precedents globally. They were among the first marine fishes of commercial importance to be listed on both the IUCN Red List and CITES Appendix II. Overfishing and non-selective fishing are two agents in their depletion, so management is clearly needed. We here outline what is known about these fishes and their trade, before considering the potential role the culture and release could play in rebuilding wild populations.