When I embarked on my journey to raise awareness for near-threatened and endangered species through art, I was deeply moved by the plight of the Knysna seahorse. Learning about its critically endangered status, I sought to collaborate with individuals in Knysna to create an art piece advocating for the species. Unfortunately, this initial effort did not materialize as hoped. However, my dedication to conservation remained steadfast. In 2022, when I began working with Oceans Alive Conservation Trust, I was thrilled to discover that one of the year's projects was the Knysna Seahorse Research Project. This opportunity to collaborate with a team of scientists and conservationists dedicated to the protection of the Knysna seahorse was a dream come true.

The Knysna seahorse is not only a symbol of unique marine biodiversity but also an indicator of the health of its estuarine habitat. Its critically endangered status underscores the urgent need for conservation efforts to preserve these vital ecosystems. Advocacy is crucial because it raises awareness, mobilizes support, and drives action to protect species like the Knysna seahorse from extinction. Working together with passionate individuals and organizations, we can make a tangible difference in conserving this remarkable species and ensuring the long-term health of its habitat.

The Knysna Seahorse (Hippocampus capensis) is a critically endangered species endemic to a small region in South Africa. It is one of the rarest seahorse species globally and is currently listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List. This designation reflects its extremely limited range and the severe threats it faces in its natural habitat.

Conservation Status:

• IUCN Red List Status: Critically Endangered
• Unique Adaptations: The Knysna Seahorse has adapted to life in estuarine environments, making it well-suited to the specific conditions of its habitat, including varying salinities and complex underwater vegetation.

Habitat: The Knysna Seahorse is found in three primary estuaries along the southern coast of South Africa:

1. Knysna Estuary: This estuary is the species' namesake and historically the primary habitat.
2. Keurbooms Estuary: Located to the east of Knysna, this estuary provides a crucial additional habitat for the seahorses.
3. Swartvlei Estuary: Further to the east, Swartvlei also supports populations of this endangered species.

Conservation Efforts:

Efforts to conserve the Knysna Seahorse include:

• Habitat Protection: Protecting and restoring estuarine habitats to ensure the seahorse's natural environment remains viable.
• Pollution Control: Addressing sources of pollution that impact water quality and seahorse health.
• Monitoring and Research: Ongoing scientific research to better understand the seahorse's ecology and population dynamics, as well as to inform conservation strategies.
• Community Engagement: Working with local communities to raise awareness and involve them in conservation efforts.

These measures are essential to mitigate the threats facing the Knysna Seahorse and to improve its chances of survival. Conservationists continue to advocate for the preservation of these unique estuarine habitats and to implement strategies that support the recovery of this remarkable species.

Every year, estuaries in the Western Cape experience a natural phenomenon known as estuary breaching. This occurs when high river flows or storms force the mouth of the estuary to open suddenly, causing the water levels to drop rapidly. This breach can lead to thousands of Knysna Seahorses being washed ashore.

The Knysna Seahorse, one of the most endangered seahorse species in the world, is particularly vulnerable during these events. Despite the best efforts of dedicated volunteers who work tirelessly to rescue and return these seahorses to their habitat, some individuals misguidedly take the seahorses home, thinking they are dead.

Please do not take seahorses from the beach. Even if they appear lifeless, they may simply be in shock and require time in water to determine if they are alive or dead. Every seahorse recovered and safely returned to the water is a victory for their species.

Removing potentially live animals from their natural environment not only reduces their numbers but also undermines our collective conservation efforts. Your support in following these guidelines is crucial in helping to protect and preserve the Knysna Seahorse. Every action counts, and your efforts make a significant difference in their survival and recovery.

Thank you for your dedication to wildlife conservation and for helping us ensure a future for these remarkable creatures.