Abstract
The occurrence, distribution and abundance of the endangered Knysna seahorse Hippocampus capensis in 10 estuaries on South Africa's warm temperate south coast, were investigated. Seahorses were found only in the Knysna, Swartvlei and Keurbooms estuaries. Sex ratios were even and, in most cases, more adults were found than juveniles. During the first year of study, seahorse densities were higher in the Swartvlei and Keurbooms estuaries than in the comparatively larger Knysna Estuary but, during the second year, seahorses were absent from the Keurbooms estuary, and the population size in the Swartvlei Estuary had decreased by more than 80%. These results suggest that, although the two smaller estuaries are able to support comparatively high densities of seahorses, population sizes may fluctuate considerably. Population size estimates for the Knysna Estuary were similar to those obtained in a previous study, suggesting that this estuary may represent a more stable environment and may thus be particularly important for the survival and conservation of this species.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 275-283 |
Number of pages | 9 |
Journal | African Journal of Aquatic Science |
Volume | 31 |
Issue number | 2 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2006 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Freshwater floods
- Keurbooms Estuary
- Knysna Estuary
- Patchy distribution
- Population size fluctuation
- Submerged vegetation
- Swartvlei Estuary
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics
- Aquatic Science