Common name: long-spined sea urchin

General information

The Long-spined Sea Urchin, Diadema antillarum, is a distinctive and important species in coral reef ecosystems, particularly in the Caribbean Sea. It is easily recognized by its long, thin, black spines and the red or blue ring that can be seen around its central body, known as the test. This urchin plays a crucial role in controlling algal growth on reefs, which helps maintain the balance necessary for coral health and diversity.

Care

In the aquarium, Diadema antillarum requires a tank with plenty of live rock and a stable environment to thrive. They are sensitive to water quality and require consistent levels of calcium and alkalinity to maintain their spines and test. It's important to provide them with ample space to move around, as they are active grazers of algae.

Reproduction

These sea urchins reproduce by spawning, where males and females release their gametes into the water column simultaneously, leading to external fertilization. In an aquarium setting, spawning can be a rare event and is typically not the focus of their care.

Symbiosis

Diadema antillarum does not have any specific symbiotic relationships that are commonly observed in the aquarium trade. However, their role in the wild as algae grazers indirectly benefits corals by preventing algae overgrowth that can smother coral reefs.

Habitat

The natural habitat of the Long-spined Sea Urchin includes coral reefs, rocky substrates, and seagrass beds in the Caribbean Sea, the Gulf of Mexico, Florida, and the northern coast of South America. They are typically found at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 30 meters deep.