What is the scientific name of the Australian animal that drastically changes its appearance when removed from its natural habitat?

The Australian animal known for drastically changing its appearance when removed from its natural habitat is the Leafy Sea Dragon (scientific name: Phycodurus eques).

Description and Habitat

The Leafy Sea Dragon belongs to the family of Syngnathidae, which also hosts seahorses and pipefish. Indigenous to the southern and western coasts of Australia, it exits in seaweed beds, sea grass, and rocky reefs with sandy patches up to a depth of 50 meters. This environment provides both camouflage and protection, two things that are periodically required for survival by the Leafy Sea Dragon.

Appearance

In the wild, the Leafy Sea Dragon takes on a very intricate appearance, with appendages all over its body that resemble leaves. These help the animal blend in very well with the seaweed and kelp around it and make it almost invisible to predators.

Changes in Captivity

When removed from its natural habitat and placed in captivity, the Leafy Sea Dragon can undergo significant changes in appearance. These changes include:

1. Color Fading: In captivity, the vibrant colors of the Leafy Sea Dragon often fade. This is due to the lack of natural light and the stress of a different environment.

2. Behavioral Changes: The Leafy Sea Dragon may exhibit altered behavior, such as reduced movement and changes in feeding habits, which can further affect its appearance.

3. Health Deterioration: Prolonged captivity without the proper environment can lead to health issues, such as fin erosion and skin infections, impacting its overall look.

Conservation Concerns

The leafy sea dragon is listed on the IUCN Red List as Near Threatened due to habitat loss and the impact of humans. Captivity adds more threat factors; therefore, the protection of their habitats and making conditions in captivity very close to those in their natural settings become significant.

The Leafy Sea Dragon (Phycodurus eques) is a remarkable example of an animal that changes its appearance drastically when removed from its natural habitat. This phenomenon shows how vital the preservation of natural habitats is and also how similar the confinement should be to their natural habitat to keep these unique creatures healthy in appearance.