Pincushion Urchin Red

Salmacis bicolor


(3 Reviews)

Pincushion Urchin Red
The Pincushion Urchin Red is characterized by its spiky appearance and vibrant red color, adding a bold accent to marine aquariums. This species plays a beneficial role in reef ecosystems by grazing on algae and helping to maintain the health of coral reefs.

Pincushion Urchin Red

Salmacis bicolor


(3 Reviews)

Free Shipping

With $199.00 or more in Marine Life.
More details...

Pincushion Urchin Red Care Facts

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

The Red Pincushion Urchin (Salmacis bicolor.) also known as the bicolor urchin is a small Urchin that can be found among the Atlantic Ocean. 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. 


Reviewed by: James Davis on Jan. 8, 2024


Reviewed by: Erin Holmes on Dec. 28, 2023


Reviewed by: Sam Bern on Dec. 26, 2023

Join the club! Get our best deals first!

Be The First To Hear About Our Exclusive Deals & Latest Updates!