Common name: sea-potato

General information

The Heart Urchin, scientifically known as Echinocardium cordatum, is a species of burrowing sea urchin found in sandy substrates. It is characterized by its heart-shaped test (shell) and fine spines that enable it to move through the sand. This urchin is not commonly kept in home aquariums due to its specialized habitat requirements and burrowing behavior, which can be difficult to replicate in captivity.

Care

If a hobbyist wishes to keep a Heart Urchin, a deep sand bed is essential to allow for its natural burrowing behavior. The aquarium should also have a stable environment with well-maintained water quality. Feeding can be challenging as they are detritivores, consuming organic matter within the sand.

Reproduction

In the wild, Echinocardium cordatum reproduces by releasing eggs and sperm into the water column, where fertilization occurs externally. In the aquarium, breeding is unlikely due to the difficulty in providing appropriate conditions for their complex life cycle.

Habitat

Heart Urchins are found in a range of coastal environments from the intertidal zone to depths of over 200 meters. They are widespread in the North Atlantic, the North Sea, and the Mediterranean Sea. Their preference for sandy bottoms makes them a rare choice for typical reef aquariums, which often lack the extensive sand areas required by these urchins.