CLEVELAND — The Greater Cleveland Aquarium announced Monday that it has welcomed a very rare, delicate species to its mix: The weedy sea dragon. 

The species is native to the cold coastal waters of south and west Australia.

The weedy sea dragon is difficult to successfully breed. The Aquarium of the Pacific had the first successful sea dragon hatching in 2001. Since then, fewer than 20 facilities across the world have been able to mate them. 

"These births would be a point of pride for any animal care facility, but it's particularly exciting for an aquarium of our size and age," said General Manager Stephanie White, who has been with the Aquarium since it opened in January of 2012.

Curator Ray Popik said they had to use some creativity to ensure the sea dragons were in the proper environment and were able to build an exhibit deep into the facility. 

"Its depth provided an optimal habitat for the seahorse relatives who court with an elaborate vertical dance," Popik said.

The Aquarium plans to soon be able to make the young dragons available for guests to see.

 "We're learning so much," said White, adding, "It has been amazing to watch these animals develop, so we want to give that opportunity to others if we're able."