Miguel’s Photo Diary: A Journey for Syngnathid Conservation
As hosts of the IUCN SSC Seahorse, Pipefish and Seadragon Specialist Group (SPS SG), Project Seahorse aims to bring together global experts to conserve syngnathids. Our goal is to mobilize this expert group and make a difference. Thanks to a generous donor, in my role as Project Seahorse’s Syngnathid Biologist, I had the chance to visit SPS SG members in Mexico and Brazil in 2023. Here’s my photo diary of this amazing experience…
Mexico
13 November
I arrived at Mérida Airport in the evening. Dr. Nuno Simões, a professor at the Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico and member of the Seahorse, Pipefish and Seadragon specialist group, met me at the airport and drove me to his home, where his wife, Maite Mascaró, warmly welcomed me. We spent the evening catching up and planning the days ahead.
14 November
The next morning, Nuno took me to Sisal, where their marine station is located. We discussed their ongoing work, challenges, and potential collaborations. I also met other scientists working at the facility and had fascinating conversations about their research – from aquaculture to physiology and ecology. Dr. Carlos Rosas, a cephalopod expert, and Dr. Pedro Domingues, my former undergraduate supervisor, were among them. We brainstormed future research opportunities and ways to secure funding for it. 
15 November
We returned to Sisal for a tour of the marine station. We discussed various aspects of breeding seahorses in captivity, from the equipment and design of the breeding system to seahorse biology and behavior. I visited the facility where they conduct physiological experiments and was impressed by the quality of the equipment and resources available. The team had successfully bred the lined seahorse, Hippocampus erectus, and could now study them in captivity.
16 November
Back in Sisal, I attended a meeting with Nuno and Maite’s students. Each student presented their ongoing studies on syngnathids and other research topics. Nuno shared frustration about being overwhelmed with work and not being able to dedicate more time to syngnathid research and conservation. However, he identified some students who could take potentially lead syngnathid conservation efforts in Mexico. We explored research opportunities and network connections to support much-needed fieldwork to assess syngnathid populations in Mexico.
17 November
We attended a cenote fair where ongoing research and projects were showcased. Nuno introduced me to students working on these projects. Cenotes (underground water chambers) have gained significant attention from local communities, resulting in necessary funding to support the university’s research. These sites are home to numerous species and are biodiversity hotspots.
18 November
As per Nuno and Maite’s suggestion, I visited a stunning cenote and later visited an ancient Mayan city with remarkable temples and sizable stone courts where the Maya played their ballgames. It was an incredible experience!
19 November
It was time to bid farewell to Nuno, Maite, and their team. I left filled with excitement about potential future collaborations and advancing syngnathid conservation in Mexico. Next stop: João Pessoa, Brazil, to meet Prof. Tacyana Oliveira.
Brazil
21 November
I met Tacyana at the Universidade Estadual da Paraíba (UEPB) and she introduced me to her lab, the Laboratório de Peixes e Conservação Marinha – LAPEC. I spent the morning getting to know her students and learning about their research projects, from studying syngnathid populations to genetics and ex-situ experiments.
In the afternoon, I gave a presentation about seahorse populations in Portugal, discussing the past, current, and future status. It was surprising to find that many of the topics were relevant to Brazil as well!
22 November
We left early in the morning for a three-hour drive to Tamandaré, home to the marine protected area Área de Proteção Ambiental de Guadalupe. I spoke with MPA managers about their challenges, including illegal fisheries and tourism activities.
After settling into our guesthouse, we embarked on a night adventure to spot seahorses in the mangrove, guided by our boat skipper, Mr. Neco.
23 November
We participated in a survey for one of Tacyana’s student research projects, observing seahorse population survey methods in the mangroves. Mr. Neco, a former fisherman turned nature enthusiast, inspired us with his passion and experience. After the surveys, we enjoyed fresh coconuts on the beach—a great reward for a successful day of fieldwork.
24 November
Another day of field work began in the warmth of the Brazilian summer. Between surveys, we discussed various issues in the area – from illegal fishing practices to the speed of boats rushing to serve their clients, to the decline in seahorse populations that were once abundant. Understanding and monitoring these populations is crucial to protecting them and their habitats. We then bid farewell to Tamandaré and returned to Joao Pessoa.
25 November
After three days in the field, I spent the day catching up on work and preparing for the next leg of the journey.
26 November
Tacyana invited me to explore Joao Pessoa with her family. We enjoyed Brazilian food, scenic spots, and ended the day with a magical sunset.
27 November
After breakfast, I headed to the airport to fly to Rio de Janeiro for the first-ever meeting of Brazilian syngnathid researchers. I felt honored and grateful for the opportunity to join them.
28 November
Natalie Feret-Meurer, a professor and researcher from the University of Santa-Ursula, hosted the event. Researchers presented on their work on syngnathids, including captive breeding programs, genetic studies, behavior, physiology, population assessments, and conservation. I also shared my experiences with seahorse populations in the Ria Formosa lagoon in Portugal.
29 November
The second day focused on syngnathid conservation. We discussed funding, effective field methods, and threats like illegal fishing and harmful tourist activities. It was inspiring to see the collective effort people to address these issues. We left Rio de Janeiro with hope and confidence in the future of syngnathids in Brazil.
This journey underscored the vital role of international collaboration in syngnathid conservation. By connecting with experts and local research teams in Mexico and Brazil, I gained valuable insights into the challenges and successes of preserving these species. The dedication and innovation of these researchers are paving the way for effective conservation strategies.
The takeaway is clear: global cooperation and knowledge sharing are crucial for syngnathid conservation. By building strong networks, securing funding, and raising awareness, we can protect these unique species and their habitats. This experience reinforced my commitment to syngnathid conservation and highlighted the indispensable role of our donors in making these efforts possible. Together, we can ensure a future where syngnathids thrive in healthy marine ecosystems.
The author of this photo diary is Dr Miguel Correia, Syngnathid Biologist at Project Seahorse and the Focal Point for Field Conservation at the IUCN SSC Seahorse, Pipefish and Seadragon Specialist Group.