Quick Stats
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Care Level: Moderate
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Diet: Herbivore
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Temperament: Peaceful
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Reef-Safe: Yes
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Source: Captive Bred
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Approximate Purchase Size: 1-1.5"
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Approximate Max Size: 4"
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Recommended Tank Size: 30 Gallons or Larger
Overview
The Variegated Urchin (Lytechinus variegatus) has been a popular invertebrate in saltwater aquariums for many years. The Variegated Sea Urchin, a type of pincushion urchin, originates from the tropical waters of the Western Atlantic and can usually be found roving shallow sea grass flats and other sandy substrates. In the home aquarium, these urchins are extremely effective herbivores, rapidly consuming nuisance algae. Consequently, aquarists must be sure to provide supplementary macro algae if none is available in the aquarium.
While roaming the aquarium these urchins will frequently display an interesting “covering behavior”. Whether for camouflage or protection from UV radiation they can be observed holding onto small rocks, shells, and pieces of macro algae with their tube feet. ORA Variegated Sea Urchins will certainly be a hard working and beneficial addition to any aquarium.
It’s not uncommon for urchins to spawn while in transit. If you notice a cloudy substance or unusual behavior when your urchin arrives, don’t worry! This is a natural response to the stress of shipping and not a sign the urchin is doing poorly. Simply acclimate it as usual, and it should settle into your tank just fine.
Note: Image is a representation of what to expect. The animal you receive may vary slightly in appearance.
