
Our new study highlights the value of community science for seahorse monitoring and conservation
We are very pleased to announce the publication of our latest research paper “Harnessing Community Science for Seahorse Population Monitoring: Insights from the iSeahorse Program in Tampa Bay” in Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems. The study showcases the important role of community science in monitoring seahorse populations to support conservation efforts.
This research was made possible through the partnership between Project Seahorse, a global marine conservation team, and Tampa Bay Watch, a nonprofit organization in Florida, USA. Tampa Bay Watch led a five-year community-driven initiative to monitor two local seahorse species—the lined seahorse (Hippocampus erectus) and the dwarf seahorse (Hippocampus zosterae).
These efforts are ongoing and a part of iSeahorse, a global citizen science program in the iNaturalist family. The iSeahorse empowers divers, snorkelers, and marine enthusiasts to report seahorse sightings and contribute to conservation research. Seahorses are particularly suited to citizen science because they are charismatic, sedentary, and live in shallow water.
The findings from Tampa Bay did two things: they matched well with available scientific data, adding to our confidence in citizen science, and filled important gaps in knowledge needed for conservation. For example, data reported in this paper provided new insights into seahorse population trends and reproductive behaviours, including an extended breeding season and the first recorded body lengths for the dwarf seahorse.
“Community science is a game changer,” said Elsa Camins, the study’s lead author and Project Seahorse Research Biologist. “Our partnership with Tampa Bay Watch has deepened our understanding of these iconic creatures and inspired public engagement. We’re excited to build on this success and tackle challenges to strengthen future efforts.”
“Engaging the public in iSeahorse data collection not only contributes to vital research but also cultivates a meaningful connection to the ocean for our guests and students – a connection that’s crucial for ocean conservation,” said Aubrey Malone, Water-based Program Coordinator at Tampa Bay Watch.
Community engagement is a powerful way to gather valuable data while connecting people with the importance of marine conservation.
Partnerships with dedicated seahorse champions, such as Project Seahorse and Tampa Bay Watch, help deepen understanding of species distribution, habitat use, and environmental pressures.
Join us by reporting seahorse sightings on iSeahorse.org and help us protect these magical species for generations to come.