COLUMBUS, Ohio — A groundbreaking moment in zoo history is unfolding at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, where four male weedy seadragons are carrying eggs, marking a first for a public aquarium anywhere. The announcement, made on Tuesday, highlights the remarkable efforts of the zoo’s Shores & Aquarium team.
These ethereal, leaf-like creatures, resembling characters from a storybook, are notoriously difficult to breed, with sightings in the wild being rare. Yet, thanks to the dedicated care at the Columbus Zoo, four male seadragons are now nurturing eggs transferred to their tails during an intricate underwater dance with females. This unique reproductive role, where males carry the eggs, has led to the hatching of 20 tiny seadragon babies—each about the size of a paperclip—with more expected to follow.
The hatchlings are currently growing behind the scenes, representing a significant advancement in the conservation of this vulnerable species. Located in the Nocturnal Building within the Australia & the Islands region, the weedy seadragons are a must-see attraction for visitors.
“This world-first moment is happening because of your support, and we’re so grateful to share it with you,” the zoo stated, crediting the community for enabling this conservation milestone. The Columbus Zoo continues to lead in wildlife preservation, offering a rare glimpse into the fascinating world of these elusive marine creatures.
