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Invertebrates |  |
Phylum: Echinodermata, Class: Echinoidea
Range: Tropical Seas
Size: 24 in. Space:: 50+ gal. Diet: Algae, detritus
Reef Safe: Yes Care Level: Easy Temperament: Peaceful
Natural History: The Longspine Urchin is found on rocky reefs and feeds on all types of algae, including hair algae. The spines on the upper surface are much longer than the lower surface. The spines are covered with epithelium and bacteria and are brittle, which provide this urchin effective protection.
Husbandry: The Longspine Urchin will feed on all types of algae, including hair and coralline. Care must be exercised when handling this species. The spines easily puncture human skin, and work themselves in deeper over time. This species is reported to benefit from higher salinity (36ppt).