This exhibit closed on April 14, 2002.
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In traditional Asian medicine, doctors prescribe seahorses as tonics and treatments for ailments from asthma to heart disease.
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Seahorses make their homes in some of the most threatened places
Sea grasses, mangroves, coral reefs and estuaries all support seahorse populations. These are also some of the most threatened marine habitats on Earth. As more people crowd the coastlines and these ocean homes are damaged or destroyed, seahorses lose precious living space.
Tons of seahorses are taken to treat our ailments
In traditional Asian medicine, doctors prescribe seahorses as tonics and treatments for many diseases. And demand is growing. Nearly 95 percent of all seahorses taken from the wild are sold as medicine. That adds up to 60 tons a year—more than 20 million seahorses.
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Fishing gear, home aquariums and souvenir hunters take their toll
Seahorses die when they're caught in shrimp nets and other fishing gear. Trawl nets can damage or destroy seahorse homes. Collectors also catch thousands of wild seahorses for the aquarium trade. Others are dried and made into cheap souvenirs.
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Dried seahorses turn up as souvenirs—and even as painted holiday ornaments.
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Find out more about seahorses.
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