The Spiny Seahorse can be found along the south and south-west coast of England where it can be found in shallow areas of the sea. It can also be found in rock pools in spring to early autumn. This seahorse is also called the ‘Long-snouted Seahorse’ and is related to the ‘Short-snouted Seahorse’ which is also found in our coastal waters.

The Spiny Seahorse can reach a length of around twenty centimetres and it has the name 'Spiny Seahorse' because it has a horse-shaped head covered with lots of spines. The spines also run down the length of the seahorse’s body. The body can change its colour to match its surroundings so it can be a greenish yellow to a reddish brown colour. It also has a long tail that is used for climbing. The Spiny Seahorse swims in an upright position and uses a fin situated near the base of its tail to propel forward.

The female Spiny Seahorse lays her eggs in a special pouch which is on the front of the male’s body and then the male takes over the responsibility of looking after the eggs. The male guards and protects them until they are ready to hatch. Seahorses are often sought after as souvenirs because they dry out intact.