Over the past 7 months, South Australia has experienced the largest recorded mass mortality of leafy seadragons (Phycodurus eques) and weedy seadragons (Phyllopteryx taeniolatus). Thousands of these iconic fishes have died during an extended harmful algal bloom (HAB), dominated by the dinoflagellate Karenia mikimotoi, along with smaller concentrations of related Karenia and Karlodinium species, and other harmful algae.
Over the past 7 months, South Australia has experienced the largest recorded mass mortality of leafy seadragons (Phycodurus eques) and weedy seadragons (Phyllopteryx taeniolatus). Thousands of these iconic fishes have died during an extended harmful algal bloom (HAB), dominated by the dinoflagellate Karenia mikimotoi, along with smaller concentrations of related Karenia and Karlodinium species, and other harmful algae.
Dr. Richard Smith, our expert on pygmy seahorses and a renowned underwater photographer, has recently been featured on CNN Science's Call to Earth series. In this in-depth feature, Dr. Smith shares his research and the captivating behaviors of pygmy seahorses.
Read the full story here and dive into his groundbreaking research uncovering the secrets of these tiny creatures, from male pregnancies to incredible mating behaviors.
