Seadragon
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| Leafy Seadragon Conservation status: Lower risk (cd) | ||||||||||||||
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| Phycodurus eques (Günther, 1865) |
The Leafy Sea Dragon (Phycodurus eques) is a marine fish related to the seahorse. These creatures are native to the waters around southern and western Australia and generally remain in shallow, temperate waters. Their name comes from their appearance, with long leaf-like protrusions coming from all over the body. These protrusions are not used for propulsion; they serve only as camoflage.
Much like the seahorse, their name comes from a chance resemblance to a known (in this case mythical) creature. While not large by sea monster standards, they are very large for sea horses, growing at least 18 inches (45 cm). They feed on plankton, algae, and other small flotsam, and are not preyed upon by any species other than humans. Females deposit eggs on the tail of the male where they grow to maturity. They have become endangered through pollution and industrial runoff as well as collection by fascinated divers who are entranced by their unique appearance. In response to these dangers they have been officially protected by the Australian government.
As of 2004, only 3 professional aquariums had succeeded in keeping sea dragons.
A related species is the Weedy sea dragon.
The Leafy sea dragon is the official marine emblem of the state of South Australia.