Blue Dot Pincushion Urchin

Urchins are found in tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region, including the Indian Ocean, the Pacific Ocean, and the Red Sea. They inhabit coral reefs, rocky substrates, and sandy or seagrass areas. Urchins are primarily herbivores, grazing on algae and detritus in their natural habitat. They use their tube feet to move along surfaces and feed on available plant material. If algae becomes scarce, supplemental feeding with appropriate algae or other plant matter may be necessary. Urchins may disturb substrate and other tank inhabitants. It's essential to avoid using copper-based treatments in a tank with sea urchins, as it can harm them. Always follow the recommended guidelines for medication use in marine aquariums.

Astropyga radiata are also known as the Blue Dot Pincushion Urchin or the Banded Sea Urchin. They are frequently collected for the aquarium trade. These sea urchins are known for their striking color. They have a deep red or maroon body with prominent black or dark blue bands that radiate outward from their center. They can grow up to 3'.

Water conditions: Salinity 1.023 - 1.025 Temp (F) 72 - 78, pH 8.1 - 8.4, Hardness 8 - 12 dKH