In 2003 the marine aquarium world was taken by storm, thanks to the release of the Disney film Finding Nemo. Suddenly the clownfish was forever cemented as a children’s film icon, and kids all over the world wanted a “Nemo” of their own. Sadly, in 2003, the rise of captive bred clownfish hadn’t replaced all wild-caught fish with specimens born and raised in an aquarium. Parent’s rush to satiate their child’s nagging for a pet clownfish led to many specimens kept in inappropriate conditions, and eventually dying. In fact, the theme of the film that suggested fish believed a flush down the toilet led to freedom, generated controversy among aquarists and conservationists. Eventually Disney hired none other than Jean Michelle Cousteau (son of legendary ocean explorer Jacques Yves-Cousteau) to offer a disclaimer video on the film’s DVD release, cautioning both parents and children about the responsibility required when keeping marine fish, and how aquariums effect wild fish populations. Now, 13 years later, Finding Nemo’s upcoming sequel, Finding Dory is expected to stir more youthful interest in marine aquariums. This time though, the hobby and trade are far more prepared than the first time, with 13 years of innovation and methodology that makes owning a marine fish easier than ever. Since the clownfish craze came and went via the first film, it’s likely another marine animal may be on children and parent’s wish list this time around, and that is none other than the seahorse. Since a seahorse is one of the film’s title characters, it’s quite possible this unique and alluring animal will excite movie goers into convincing their parents that a seahorse tank is a must. 
To catch up on the current state of keeping seahorses, I reached out to Alyssa Gabriel, owner and founder of Alyssa’s Seahorse Savvy in Salisbury, Maryland. Alyssa and her fiancé Kyle operate Seahorse Savvy, and started breeding various Hippocampus species after graduating from Salisbury University. Both studied animal biology and have a background in aqua-culture, which positioned them perfectly to breed and raise marine animals. After talking with Alyssa, it’s clear that today, even those with no experience in keeping marine aquariums can start and enjoy a seahorse tank. Captive raised seahorses continue a trend toward hearty animals, with bright colors and voracious appetites. If Finding Dory does inspire a seahorse craze, it’s quite possible those who set-up seahorse systems after seeing the film, will realize more success than the amateur clownfish keepers of Nemo’s generation.… More:
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