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Purple sea urchin

Strongylocentrotus purpuratus

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Fun Facts

These urchins may decorate themselves with algae and shell bits for protection. The sea otter is one of the main natural predators that eats sea urchins. Because sea otters are endangered, urchins have increased in numbers and reduced the amount of kelp growing in some places. 

Species Type:

Invertebrates

Common Name(s):

Purple sea urchin

Size:

They can be 2–4 inches (5–10 centimeters) across.

Diet:

These urchins graze on algae, including giant kelp.

Range & Habitat:

Purple sea urchins live rocky intertidal areas and kelp beds in the Eastern Pacific Ocean from Alaska down to Cedros Island, Mexico.

Details:

This urchin has a round body covered with purple spines.