Stuck Triggers

The trigger is a part of anatomy that is involved in the seahorse's eating mechanism. We often refer to the whole process as a snick because of the sound that is made once the trigger is deployed. They have no teeth and "inhale" their prey whole using a rapid spring-like action.

This mechanism involves releasing the trigger, and raising the well developed muscles under the gill covers which in turn creates a strong influx of water while increasing the diameter of the snout. The powerful suction pulls the prey into the snout along with the water. - Information provided by Renee Coles-Hix