How to spot the Leafy seadragon when scuba diving
Phycodurus eques
Extremely limited range, found only along the southern Australian coastline from about Port Stephens, New South Wales, around the southern coast through Victoria and Tasmania, to Western Australia near Perth. Endemic to these temperate Australian waters.
Can be found year-round, though visibility and diving conditions in southern Australia are often best during autumn and winter months (March-August) when seas are calmer. Breeding season (spring/summer, October-January) may offer chances to see males carrying eggs.
Cool temperate waters, typically 12-19°C (54-66°F). Dry suit or thick wetsuit recommended for comfortable diving.
Found in relatively shallow waters (5-30m) among seaweed beds, seagrass meadows, and kelp forests. Their leaf-like appendages provide perfect camouflage in these habitats. Best known locations are in South Australia, particularly Rapid Bay Jetty and Victor Harbor near Adelaide, plus Wool Bay. Also found at sites near Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth. Extremely fragile animals protected by Australian law. Approach very slowly with perfect buoyancy control. Photography requires patience and careful approaches. Never touch or harass these rare creatures. Local guides are highly recommended as they know specific territories of resident individuals.
Worldwide observation of the Leafy seadragon
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Data sources
- Photos: Wikimedia Commons
- Distribution and specie data: GBIF (Global Biodiversity Information Facility)
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