Parental care by males is found in

Options

A. Hippocampus
B. Labeo
C. Synaptura
D. Anabas

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks about which organism exhibits parental care by males. We need to analyze the options provided: hippocampus, labio, synaptura, and anubis.

2. **Identifying the Organism**: Among the options, the term "hippocampus" refers specifically to the seahorse, which is a marine fish known for its unique reproductive behavior.

3. **Male Parental Care in Seahorses**: In seahorses (hippocampus), it is the males that exhibit parental care. This is a distinctive feature of their reproductive strategy.

4. **Brood Pouch Functionality**: Male seahorses have a specialized structure called a brood pouch. This pouch is where the female deposits her fertilized eggs. The male then carries these eggs in his pouch until they hatch.

5. **Incubation Period**: The incubation period for the eggs in the male's pouch can range from 9 to 45 days, during which the male provides care for the developing embryos.

6. **Nutritional Support**: While the yolk of the eggs provides initial nourishment, the male seahorse also supplies additional nutrients through the brood pouch, including energy-rich lipids and calcium for the developing young.

7. **Environmental Control**: The brood pouch not only provides nutrients but also maintains a controlled environment for the eggs, ensuring they receive adequate oxygen and protection from external factors.

8. **Conclusion**: Based on the information about the parental care exhibited by male seahorses, the correct answer to the question is **hippocampus**.

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