Yvonne E. Smith, aged 13, of Williamsport, PA. ;for her question:

Is is true that the male seahorse bears the young?

It is too bad that we cannot keep the fascinating little seahorses for a pet. everyone is so fond of him. But he needs to live in ever‑changing sea water. Papa Seahorse is certainly one of the best fathers in the animal kingdom. His care of the babies would be most interesting to watch.

Many people think that Papa Seahorse even gives birth to the babies. However, this is not actually so. The new family begins with a courting season. And, of all things, Mama Seahorse comes courting Papa Seahorse. She, however, lays the eggs for the new family. When they are ready she turns them over to Papa to hatch.

The little father keeps the eggs sealed in a special pouch on his underside. They are ready to hatch in about 45 days.. Then Papa's troubles really begin. For the little fellows are very slow and lazy to come out into the watery world.

Mr. Seahorse wriggle  and writhes and rubs his pouch on rocks to get the babies out. The whole job may take three days, When it is over there may be 200 new seahorses in the sea. Each one is about a quarter of an inch long.