RESCUE OF KNYSNA SEAHORSES -What a way to end World Tourism month on World Tourism day!
Residents of Plett have banded together to conserve the unique Knysna seahorse (Hippocampus capensis), a creature steeped in myth, magic, and folklore, in a heartwarming story of neighborhood cooperation. Along with its mythical position, the Knysna seahorse has a distinctive habitat; unlike the almost 40 other seahorse species identified globally, it can only be found in river estuaries, not the open ocean.
There are only three estuarine systems where this intriguing animal, which is native to the Garden Route region of the Western Cape, may be found: the Swartvlei in Sedgefield, Knysna, and Keurbooms in Plettenberg Bay. These seahorses once called estuaries like Klein Brak, Groot Brak, Goukamma, Groot, Kromme, Kabeljous, and Gamtoos home. Nevertheless, they have not been noticed in these systems for a long time.
A recent rescue effort led by committed locals saved not just a national treasure but also one of the 40 species of seahorses known to inhabit river estuaries worldwide. The 12cm Knysna seahorse, which was in a perilous situation because of natural occurrences. They were severely endangered by the flood, which flushed them from river mouths at low tide.
Surprisingly, the community’s quick response allowed for the safe capture of 1,004 seahorses, with 706 of them successfully returning to their natural environment. This amazing achievement emphasizes the value of protecting these uncommon species.
The saved seahorses were delivered back to their respective estuarine systems, such as the Swartvlei, Knysna, and Keurbooms, where they take shelter in eelgrass beds and eat. The community’s efforts and the seahorses’ fortitude have offered a ray of hope for the survival of this unique species.
A creature of myth, magic and fable, the iconic Knysna seahorse, Hippocampus capensis, is the only one of nearly 40 of its’ species worldwide. It is found in river estuaries and not in the ocean.
Endemic to the Garden Route area of the Western Cape, it is found in only three estuarine systems. These are the Swartvlei (at Sedgefield), Knysna and Keurbooms (at Plettenberg Bay).
Knysna Seahorse in a tank at SANPark’s offices on Thesen Island, Knysna.The tiny little 12cm seahorse used to have a wider range being previously found in Klein Brak, Groot Brak, Goukamma, Groot, Kromme, Kabeljous, and Gamtoos estuaries. They have not however been seen in these systems for many years.
The Female depositing eggs in the Male’s pouch
Male Knysna Seahorse expelling the miniature hatchlings from his pouch.
Plett declared a whale heritage site
https://www.plett-tourism.co.za/