Leafy Seadragon

Common Name: Leafy Seadragon Latin Name: Phycodurus eques Location: along rocky reefs and kelp forests off the coast of southern and western Australia Conservation Status: Least Concern

The leafy seadragon is the marine emblem of South Australia.

The decorative leaf like structures give them almost perfect camouflage in seaweed. They swim slowly with nearly invisible movements of their fins, creating the illusion of seaweed floating in the current.

Close relatives to seahorses, male seadragons are also responsible for childbearing and incubate the fertilized eggs.

Photographed at Minnesota Zoo FujiFilm FinePix HS20EXR