The endangered Knysna seahorse (Hippocampus capensis) has been successfully reintroduced into the education display tank located at the SANParks offices on Thesen Island in Knysna.
As part of SANParks' continuous endeavors to boost understanding around distinctive species, this project aims to enhance conservation education within the bounds of the Garden Route National Park.
The office located at Thesen Island is among the select sites in South Africa authorized to keep and exhibit captive Knysna seahorses for educational reasons.
JP Louw, who speaks for SANParks, highlighted just how uncommon this particular species is.
“ He mentioned, "This uncommon species occurs naturally in just these three estuaries globally: Swartvlei, Knysna, and Keurbooms, which are all part of the Garden Route."
The exhibition aquarium at Thesen Island provides guests with an exclusive chance to closely observe these renowned sea animals and gain insights into the challenges they encounter in their natural habitats, such as environmental destruction and contamination.
Louw said Although the educational permit permits accommodating up to 50 adult seahorses, the number of seahorses in the tank has dropped considerably over the past few years, leaving less than three breeding pairs by early 2024.
He mentioned that the decrease mainly stemmed from natural aging, since most of the seahorses were older than their usual life span of five years.
"As part of a one-time restocking initiative, SANParks researchers added six juvenile seahorses from the Knynsna Estuary to increase the breeding stock in the tanks and improve genetic diversity," he explained.
This aligns with SANParks' Threatened or Protected Species (TOPS) permit from the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE). When combined with an exception granted under the Marine Living Resources Act (MLRA) in August 2016, these documents specify the maximum number of specimens permitted for the exhibition tank along with particular stipulations outlined within them.
“ These fresh incorporations have started enhancing breeding successes, as recent indications of spawning provide optimism for a viable, self-maintained group within the exhibition aquarium."
He mentioned that the public is invited to stop by the SANParks Thesen Island office to observe these intriguing animals and gain insight into the crucial conservation efforts aimed at safeguarding South Africa’s sole native seahorse species.
Cape Argus