Iconic fishes in Africa: seeking champions for conservation

Africa’s rich and diverse ecosystems are home to a variety of seahorses and pipefishes. These iconic creatures are integral to the health of coastal ecosystems, yet they face increasing pressures from poorly managed fisheries, habitat degradation and loss, and the effects of climate change.

The IUCN SSC Seahorse Pipefish and Seadragon Specialist Group (SPS SG) is calling on passionate conservationists, researchers, and marine enthusiasts across Africa to help us in our mission to protect these remarkable species. Local champions are essential to advancing syngnathid conservation in Africa.

Why syngnathids matter in Africa

Biodiversity
Syngnathids are critical flagship species for many marine inshore habitats, from mangroves and seagrasses to coral reefs and estuaries.

Conservation Needs
Despite their importance, syngnathids are under-researched and often overlooked in African conservation efforts.

Our approach  

We follow the IUCN Species Survival Commission's approach "Species Conservation Cycle"” to drive real impact for syngnathids through three key steps (Assess, Plan, and Act), and two cross-cutting components (Communicate and Network).

To learn more about the SPS SG and our approach click here.

Current members in Africa

We currently have a few (but very wonderful) SPS SG members in Africa. These experts are actively involved in studying seahorse and pipefish populations, spearheading local and global syngnathid conservation efforts, and championing actions for these iconic fishes.

Our current members:

• Louw Claassens (South Africa, currently based in East Timor)

  • Regional Focal Point for Africa

  • Focal Point for Key Species of Conservation Concern Syngnathus watermeyeri (Critically Endangered)

• Thomas Mkare (Kenya)

• Peet Joubert (South Africa)

Help the SPS SG make a difference for Africa’s syngnathids

Do you have the expertise and dedication to advance marine conservation? We’re seeking individuals who can help drive our efforts to protect Africa’s syngnathid species. Whether you’re a researcher, a community leader, or a policy advocate, we need your skills to expand critical research, engage with local communities, and influence policy.

Reach out to us to explore how we might work together to achieve meaningful outcomes for syngnathid conservation.

Ways you can help the SPS SG

• Building capacity for syngnathid research and conservation in Africa.

• Leading local initiatives that address critical threats to syngnathid populations.

• Collaborating regionally to strengthen conservation efforts across the continent.

• Advocating for policy and management changes that protect marine habitats and biodiversity.

To express interest in helping us or to learn more, please email us at iucn@projectseahorse.org

Together, we can safeguard Africa’s syngnathids for future generations.

Available resources

A few resources related to syngnathids in Africa:

Key reference

Claassens, L., Hodgson, A. N., Short, G., & Harasti, D. 2022. Diversity, distribution, ecology and conservation status of the family Syngnathidae in sub-Saharan Africa and adjacent islands. Oceanography and Marine Biology, 169-242. http://dx.doi.org/10.1201/9781003288602-4

ID guides

• ID Guide for Eastern Atlantic Seahorses

• Original Guide to the Identification of Seahorses

Toolkits

• Protect the Knysna seahorse - a threatened national treasure

• CITES for seahorses