Seahorse couple is an anatomically accurate 3D wooden model kit that combines beauty, science and love.
It is a tribute to the beauty and uniqueness of these animals, and also a call to attention about the importance of protecting them.
The model Seahorse couple joins our Wildlife Line, dedicated to representations of animals that coexist with humans today.
This model includes a pair of seahorses of the species in a vulnerable situation Hippocampus erectus, also known as Lined Seahorse.
Each of them has its own base, and when you put them together, a heart shape is generated that unites them.
Seahorses, little marine wonders
They are fascinating animals and play an important role in the marine ecosystem.
Seahorses usually live in coral reefs and feed on small crustaceans, which they capture with their long trunk. This helps control the populations of these animals.
Likewise, seahorses are a source of food for other animals, such as fish and birds.
Seahorse mating: one of the most romantic in the animal world
Although seahorses are solitary and territorial animals, when they find their partner they keep them for life.
And they have a very unique mating ritual!
It begins with a harmonious dance that can last for days: they swim in circles, intertwine their tails and swim together.
Then, the female deposits her eggs in an incubator bag on the male’s belly, and he is responsible for taking care of them until they hatch.
Although there are a few species that are polygamous, the seahorses are considered to be genetically monogamous.
Seahorse couple: the WONDER Artistic Models tribute
The Seahorse couple model by WONDER Artistic Models is a faithful reproduction of the anatomy of these animals.
Like all our models, when designing it we base it on scientific documentation to achieve the most anatomically accurate representation that wood, which is the material we use, allows.
We designed this model thinking about the striking structure and the curious behavior of this animal, especially its fascinating mating process that arouses so much curiosity.
Sadly some species of seahorse are threatened. Such is the case of Hippocampus erectus, the species on which we base our model.
We hope we have managed to represent its beauty in such a way that we help raise awareness about the importance of its conservation.
Why are the seahorse threatened?
According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List of Threatened Species, Hippocampus erectus is threatened because it is caught incidentally in shrimp trawl fisheries, in addition to being subject to the aquarium trade.
Also, it is indicated that the preferred habitats of Hippocampus erectus (mangroves, corals and seagrasses) are also decreasing due to pollution, increased coastal development and destructive fishing practices including trawling, among other reasons.
By knowing more about this wonderful creature we will naturally value it more and help raise awareness about the enormous importance of doing what we can to prevent them from disappearing.
