Unusual record of a multiple predation of the Patagonian seahorse Hippocampus patagonicus by the Narrownose smooth-hound Mustelus schmitti in Argentine coastal waters

Abstract

Seahorses (Genus Hippocampus) are rarely reported as prey items. Their low population numbers, their ability to blend with the environment and their low palatability are the features making them an unsuitable option for predators. Five individuals of the Patagonian seahorse Hippocampus patagonicus were found in the stomach of a single narrownose smooth-hound shark Mustelus schmitti from a sample of 959 stomachs analyzed. This rare record in a single stomach out of hundreds analyzed suggests that these individuals might have clustered in a group which was detected by the opportunistic M. schmitti.