Smithsonian Environmental Research Center Search this
Type:
YouTube Videos
Uploaded:
2016-08-10T12:13:02.000Z
Views:
1,090
Video Title:
Seahorse Noodling
Description:
Two lined seahorses (Hippocampus erectus) at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, dubbed Mr. Ed and Flicka, perform a courtship dance in their aquarium. Seahorses are generally monogamous, mating with one partner for life. It's common practice for seahorse couples to do a courtship dance every morning, often changing color and intertwining their tails. And when it's time to have children, it's the male who gives birth. During mating, the female deposits hundreds of eggs into the male's brood pouch, where they're sheltered until he gives birth to them about three weeks later. It's thought this may have evolved as a way for the male to be certain he's the father. (Video: Karen McDonald/SERC)
