Ifham Nizam, in The ISLAND Newspaer, 12 December 2025, where the title reads: “Rare Seahorse discovered in Sri Lankan waters sparks urgent conservation debate” … with the photos below being ‘generic imports’ because the bloody ISLAND photo was not cooperative
Sri Lankan marine researchers have formally documented the presence of the rare and Vulnerable Three-Spot Seahorse (Hippocampus trimaculatus) in Sri Lankan waters for the first time, an important milestone in the country’s marine biodiversity records.
The discovery was made through the examination of four dried specimens collected from fishermen operating off the southern coast near Madiha, nearly 150–200 km offshore. The evidence confirms that the island’s marine ecosystem hosts a greater diversity of seahorses than previously recognized.
Until now, only two species—Hippocampus kuda and Hippocampus spinosissimus—were scientifically confirmed in Sri Lanka, both largely linked to the northwestern lagoon systems. This discovery shifts that narrative southward.
Lead scientist Janamina Bandara emphasised the importance of the breakthrough, saying the identification not only verifies the species’ presence but also extends its known distribution range in the Indian Ocean.
He told The Island:”This is the first authentic record of Hippocampus trimaculatus from Sri Lankan waters. This species was assumed to occur here based on regional presence, but until now, we lacked verified scientific proof.”
Found in an Unexpected Habitat
While seahorses are typically associated with seagrass beds, shallow estuaries, or mangroves, the discovery revealed a sur
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“Smaller specimens sell for roughly Rs. 1,000 locally, while foreign buyers pay up to Rs. 5,000. Larger specimens fetch significantly more,” Bandara said.
Map. Known distribution of Hippocampus trimaculatus with the current study site indicated. Red dots: confirmed research-grade observations (n = 76) of the species from iNaturalist. Blue dot: study site location (Madiha coast, Southern Sri Lanka).
Many dried specimens are reportedly converted into gold-plated pendants, marketed under the claim of bringing luck and prosperity. In some tourist markets, dried seahorses are sold discreetly alongside shells and corals.
While enforcement exists, Bandara says it remains largely symbolic. “Raids happen, but are limited. Without awareness among fishermen and tour operators, the trade will continue,” she said.
Global Conservation Context
The Three-Spot Seahorse is listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN Red List and is protected under Appendix II of CITES, meaning its international trade requires permits. The species faces high risk from:
Bycatch in trawl fisheries
Rising demand from Asian traditional medicine markets
Rapid habitat decline due to marine pollution
Slow reproductive turnover
Seahorses exhibit monogamous pair bonding and unique male pregnancy, making their populations extremely fragile when harvested.
Sri Lanka, positioned at a central point in the Indian Ocean trade network, remains vulnerable to illegal wildlife trafficking routes.
Bandara emphasised that biodiversity verification has regulatory relevance.
“Scientific records strengthen diplomatic and policy decisions. Without confirmed presence, enforcement remains weaker,” she explained.
Calls for Greater Action
Following the discovery, the research team is urging local authorities and NGOs to prioritise:
Awareness programmes for coastal communities
Monitoring of multi-day fishing vessels
Inclusion of seahorses in biodiversity assessments
Tourism-season enforcement in southern coastal markets
Bandara believes this new evidence allows Sri Lanka to become an active contributor to global seahorse conservation efforts.
A Turning Point for Marine Biodiversity Research
Beyond the immediate conservation implications, this finding marks one of the most scientifically significant marine records of recent years.
It suggests that Sri Lanka’s offshore ecosystems are both understudied and vulnerable to emerging human-driven pressures. Researchers now believe more undocumented marine species may inhabit local waters, awaiting formal identification.
“This discovery is not only a scientific milestone but also a reminder that our oceans hold species that are disappearing faster than we are documenting them,” Bandara said.
As marine debris continues to accumulate and demand for illegal ornamental wildlife persists, researchers warn that scientific discovery alone will not ensure the species’ survival. Bandara says what happens next will determine the fate of this newly confirmed marine icon. “If we act now—educate, regulate and monitor—we stand a chance to protect these animals before they vanish unnoticed.”
