In modern discussion one is more likely to encounter the term "Hippocampus" as a reference to a structure in the brain that is involves in memory, spatial navigation, and is part of the limbic system. Alternately, the hippocampus may be refered to as the Genus that is commonly refered to as "Seahorses."
Tied to these modern uses is a mythological underpinning. The hippocampus was a creature tied to Poseidon - the Greek god of the sea and of horses. Poseidon is described by Homer as being conveyed by "Brazen hoofed horses." and hippocampi are found in ancient art, including mosaics and sculpture. The name comes from root words meaning "horse" and "(sea)monster"
In personal reflection, the symbol of the horse as a means of conveyance and travel fit nicely with the function of the hippocampus as a part of the brain. The water associations of the mythological hippocampus add to this in invoking the aspects of emotion and intuition.
I would offer that the mythological hippocampus could be seen as a totem or symbol of travel through one's own subconscious - a mount for travel beneath the waves of one's own mind.
References for information and art used here (all use is for strictly educational purposes)
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