Common name: rock-boring urchin

General information

The Rock Boring Urchin, scientifically known as Echinometra lucunter, is a species of sea urchin commonly found in the tropical Western Atlantic, including the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. This species is known for its ability to bore into solid rock, creating shelter and living space. It has a dark, often reddish-brown to greenish-black test (shell) with short, sharp spines that can vary in color from red to purple, brown, or green.

Care

In the aquarium, Echinometra lucunter requires a stable environment with plenty of live rock to graze on and hide within. They are excellent algae eaters and can help control algae growth in the tank. However, they may also inadvertently damage corals or move small rocks and frags while foraging, so they should be monitored in a reef tank setting.

Reproduction

Rock Boring Urchins reproduce by releasing gametes into the water column, where fertilization occurs externally. In the home aquarium, breeding is not common, but with optimal conditions, it is possible to observe spawning behavior.

Symbiosis

While not known for any specific symbiotic relationships in the aquarium, in the wild, Echinometra lucunter often provides habitat for a variety of small invertebrates by creating borings in the rock.

Habitat

This species is typically found in shallow waters, often in areas with strong wave action where they can bore into limestone or coral substrate. They are adaptable and can also be found in seagrass beds and mangrove roots.