Species Type:
Invertebrates
Common Name(s):
Red sea urchin
Size:
This urchin's test, or protective covering, can grow to 7 inches (18 centimeters) in diameter.
Diet:
These urchins graze on kelp, a type of algae, most often. They can also eat small bottom-dwelling invertebrate animals.
Range & Habitat:
Red sea urchins tend to live in rocky areas, often in crevices or under ledges, from the Gulf of Alaska near Kodiak Island, Alaska to Baja California, Mexico.
Details:
Like other urchins, the red sea urchin has a dome-shaped shell called the “test” covered in spines. Its test is also covered with tube feet that it uses to move and bring food to its mouth, at the bottom of the urchin.