Como Zoo Opens Seahorse Display In Time For Father's Day
ST.PAUL, Minn. (WCCO) – The Como Zoo opened a permanent display Wednesday that centers around one of the animal kingdom's most dedicated and busy fathers: the male seahorse.
The male seahorse is not only monogamous with its mate, but he carries the unborn young – which may number in the hundreds – around in pouch for up to 45 days until the eggs hatch. Seahorses swim in tropical waters throughout much of the world's oceans, and they range in size from 0.6 to 14 inches long, the zoo says.
On a romantic note, the male of the particular seahorse species the zoo has (the lined seahorse) performs a dance every morning with its mate to reestablish the couple's bond.
The new exhibit, located in the Aquatics Building, hosts 12 lined seahorses and 15 other aquatic animals in a 300-gallon tank. The zoo says more animals will be added to the exhibit as the summer continues. The zoo's plan is to eventually have three different seahorse species and 25 other aquatic animals on display. Some of those animals, the zoo says, have the ability to change colors and blend in with their surroundings. Fathers fond of hunting may admire the tactics of such animals.
And if you need a Father's Day gift, the zoo suggests sponsoring an animal. The sponsorship helps the zoo maintain the best possible care and habitat for its animals, and it also helps the zoo in its wildlife conservatory efforts. To learn more about an animal sponsorship (or purchase one) call 651-487-8229.
For more information on the Como Zoo, visit its website. To see a male seahorse give birth, watch the video below.
