Common name: sea biscuit

General information

The Red Heart Urchin, scientifically known as Clypeaster rosaceus, is a fascinating echinoderm that is part of the sand dollar family. Unlike the flat sand dollars commonly found washed up on beaches, the Red Heart Urchin has a more inflated body with a distinct red or pink hue, which gives it its common name. This species is a unique addition to the marine aquarium, appreciated for its natural behavior of burrowing and sifting through the sand, which helps to aerate and clean the substrate.

Care

Clypeaster rosaceus requires a tank with a deep sand bed to accommodate its burrowing behavior. It is a peaceful species that should be kept with non-aggressive tank mates. The Red Heart Urchin feeds on detritus, microorganisms, and organic matter found within the sand. It is important to ensure that the aquarium has a mature sand bed with sufficient detritus to sustain the urchin's diet. Overfeeding should be avoided to prevent water quality issues.

Reproduction

In the wild, Clypeaster rosaceus reproduces by releasing gametes into the water column, a process known as broadcast spawning. In the aquarium, breeding is rare, but with optimal conditions, it is possible to observe spawning behavior. The larvae are planktonic and go through several developmental stages before settling to the bottom and metamorphosing into juveniles.

Habitat

The Red Heart Urchin is found in shallow to moderately deep waters, typically in seagrass beds and sandy bottoms. It is native to the Western Atlantic, from North Carolina to Brazil, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. In the aquarium, replicating its natural environment with a sandy substrate and calm water flow is essential for its well-being.