Pincushion Urchin

Lytechinus sp.


(9 Reviews)

Pincushion Urchin

Pincushion Urchin

Lytechinus sp.


(9 Reviews)

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Care Facts

Care Level: Moderate
Tempermant: Peaceful
Diet: Omnivore
Reef Safe: Yes
Minimum Tank Size: 30 Gallon
Max Size: 4 Inches

The Pincushion Urchin (Lytechinus sp.) is a small Urchin that can be found among the Atlantic Ocean. Their colors can range from a beige/off-white to a green or purple. They reach a maximum size of 3-4 inches and feed on a variety of detritus, as well as algae. They are typically stationary during the day, but will come out around twilight to scavenge for food. Aristotle once wrote of the five parts of the Urchin's mouth:  "In reality the mouth-apparatus of the urchin is continuous from one end to the other, but to outward appearance it is not so, but looks like a horn lantern with the panes of horn left out."  This holds true today, as the mouth of the urchin is referred to as "Aristotle's Lantern".  The mouth of the Urchin is used to scrape algae from rockwork.  The spines of the urchin are a defense mechanism that are barbed like that of a fish hook and can inflict serious pain to the predator.  These spines can either come to a sharp point or can be stubby and blunt. Some fish will lay eggs among urchins, relying on the spines to keep them safe from predators. 

Absolutely in love with this guy. He is so unique. And his purple color looks great in my aquarium.


Reviewed by: Caren Christian on Feb. 26, 2024

Awesome quality, large and doing great


Reviewed by: Scott Holmblad on Feb. 25, 2024

These mediums are nice size!


Reviewed by: Bob Lentner on Feb. 11, 2024


Reviewed by: Franklin West on Jan. 23, 2024


Reviewed by: Erin Holmes on Dec. 28, 2023


Reviewed by: Andrew Hernandez on Dec. 14, 2023

Great size and very healthy


Reviewed by: Liz Van Vliet on Dec. 3, 2023

Active, not sure how well he will do just yet. But hopefully great against the algae


Reviewed by: Sebastian Pfeffer on Nov. 22, 2023


Reviewed by: Alvin Barbes on July 12, 2023

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