New project aims to save endangered Queensland seahorse

University of Queensland researchers have begun the state's first study of White's seahorses to save them from extinction.

Associate Professor Karen Cheney from the School of the Environment said there were critical information gaps about the seahorse species, which was 1 of only 2 in the world classified as endangered.

"The species was listed as endangered in 2020 after some New South Wales populations declined by 90% within 6 years," Dr. Cheney said.

"Similar population declines may have occurred in Queensland but the species has never been studied here, so no conservation efforts exist, unlike in NSW.

"Seahorses are highly selective with habitat choices and have minimal ability to move, so they are very susceptible to disturbances.

"Changing climate conditions, flood events and dredging led to the loss of critical White's seahorse habitat, including seagrass beds and soft coral."

The White's seahorse is native to the east coast of Australia and found mostly in estuarine environments.

The species can grow to about 10–15 centimeters and lives in coastal bays from very shallow to about 10–15 meters deep.

In collaboration with the Sea World Foundation, researchers will conduct hundreds of surveys in hotspot areas across South-East Queensland to find, tag and release as many as possible.

Ph.D. candidate Rowan Carew said members of the public could help by taking photos and reporting any sightings to the researchers' online database.

"Critical information such as where they are found, what habitats they are associated with, what their population structure is and climate impacts are completely unknown," Carew said.

"This project aims to understand these critical aspects of the QLD population so appropriate conservation actions can be developed to ensure survival.

"Any seahorse sighting will help as they are often incredibly camouflaged and remain very still but a keen photographer or hobbyist can spot them while diving or snorkeling.

"To collect data, please keep at least 30 cm away and try not to disturb them, take a clear photo from the side, preferably with a scale of some sort, and record the time and exact location.

"Then upload your images and location to the webpage with your contact details but try not to share information about the seahorse publicly as they're popular with aquarium collectors."

Provided by University of Queensland