These two seahorses are engaging in this behavior primarily for mating purposes. Courtship involves intricate spins and changes in color to display affection. Moreover, seahorses engage in courtship rituals such as chasing, spinning, and synchronized swimming to strengthen their bond. Seahorses are unique in that males carry and birth the offspring. After the female seahorse lays hundreds of eggs into a specialized organ called the hatching sac on the male's abdomen, the male provides nutrients and oxygen to the developing embryos using his own blood. After a few weeks of gestation, the male releases the offspring. These newborn seahorses are self-sufficient from birth and require no parental care.