Common name: groove burrowing urchin

General information

The West Indian Sea Egg, scientifically known as Brissus unicolor, is a species of sea urchin that is often appreciated in the reef aquarium hobby for its role in algae control. This species is characterized by its rounded shape and variable coloration, which can range from purple to brown, often with lighter colored spines.

Care

Brissus unicolor is a hardy species that can adapt to a range of conditions found in captive systems. They are excellent algae grazers and can help maintain clean rock surfaces and substrate. It's important to ensure that the aquarium has sufficient algae growth or supplemental feedings to sustain them, as they are continuous feeders.

Reproduction

In the wild, Brissus unicolor reproduces by releasing gametes into the water column in a process known as broadcast spawning. In the aquarium, however, reproduction is less common but can occur if conditions are ideal and a group of individuals is kept.

Habitat

The natural habitat of the West Indian Sea Egg includes sandy bottoms and seagrass beds in the Caribbean Sea and adjacent Atlantic waters. They are often found at various depths, from shallow waters to deeper regions, where they play a role in the benthic community by grazing on algae and detritus.