---
title: Softcoral Seahorse (Hippocampus debelius)
scientific_name: Hippocampus debelius
common_name: Softcoral Seahorse
taxon: Seahorses
conservation_status: NT - Near Threatened
published: 2024-10-30T14:30:00.173Z
updated: 2025-11-25T13:58:09.000Z
tags: Softcoral Seahorse, Hippocampus debelius, Seahorses, Red Sea, Marine Life, Diving
url: https://redseacreatures.com/taxon/fishes/bony-fishes/seahorses/softcoral-seahorse
---

# Softcoral Seahorse (*Hippocampus debelius*)

**Taxon:** Seahorses (*Hippocampus*)  
**Conservation Status:** NT - Near Threatened  


Hippocampus debelius, commonly referred to as the softcoral seahorse, is a marine fish species belonging to the family Syngnathidae. This species is known from only two specimens collected from the Gulf of Suez in the Red Sea, found at depths ranging from 15 to 30 meters (49–98 feet). Observed in association with soft corals, the species is presumed to have a diet consisting mainly of crustaceans, akin to other seahorse species. Additionally, H. debelius is believed to be ovoviviparous, with males carrying eggs in a brood pouch until live offspring are born.

The collected specimens measured approximately 2.4 centimeters (0.94 inches) in length. Notable morphological features include a medium-sized snout with a bulbous tip, a low, angular coronet, and elongated slender spines on the head, trunk, and tail, which exhibit dark brown or black tips.

The specific epithet, debelius, is a tribute to Helmut Debelius, a naturalist from Frankfurt am Main, Germany, renowned for his extensive publications on marine life. Notably, Debelius initially embarked on his professional life as a policeman.

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*Source: [Red Sea Creatures](https://redseacreatures.com/taxon/fishes/bony-fishes/seahorses/softcoral-seahorse)*
*Updated: November 25, 2025*