Evaluation of a simple tagging method to monitor the growth of endangered species of seahorse

摘要

Identification of an individual seahorse is important for captive breeding and conservation studies. A simple and cost-effective tagging method was devised to suit the rigid body structure and small fins of Hippocampus kuda. The first generation sexually matured individuals (452 numbers) were tagged using plastic strips tied around the neck. No significant differences (P >0.05) in growth between the tagged and untagged groups were noted. All the tags persisted for one year without any perceptible changes in sexual and social behaviour.