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Longspine Sea Urchin

Long-spined sea urchin

Diadema antillarum

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Fun Facts

Long-spined sea urchins living in colder waters tend to have a longer lifespan.

Species Type:

Invertebrates

Common Name(s):

Long-spined sea urchin

Size:

Long-spined sea urchins can reach over 1.6 feet (20 inches) in diameter.

Diet:

These urchins eat algae growing on corals and sometimes the coral itself.

Range & Habitat:

In the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico, long-spined sea urchins can be found in shallow, calm waters near or on coral reefs.

Details:

These round urchins have long-spines extending out from every side. These spines are long, thin and hollow, making them easy to break.