Long Spine Urchin

Long Spine Urchin
(Diadema setosum)

The Black Longspine Urchin gets its name from its unique body that is covered is thing long defensive spines. They are amazing algae eaters and are great members of your clean up crew if dealing with nuisance algae. Especially useful if your tank houses aggressive fish that may pick up smaller, defenseless clean up crew members like snails and hermits.

The long spine urchin is generally nocturnal and will do most of its forage at algae consumption when the lights are off. They are not aggressive to any other tank inhabitants and will not harm or eat any corals. These things are simply algae machines. There spines are actually very fragile and delicate and will easily fall or break off. Extra care needs to be taken when handling to ensure you don’t hurt them or yourself. These animals are not venomous put their spine can prick you if not careful.