Common name: Pencil Sea Urchin

General information

The Long-spined Sea Urchin, Prionocidaris bispinosa, is a distinctive echinoderm known for its long, sharp spines that can reach considerable lengths. This species is not as commonly kept as some other sea urchins due to its potential to harm other tank inhabitants with its spines. However, it can be a fascinating addition to a larger, species-specific setup where its natural behaviors can be observed without risk to other animals.

Care

Care for Prionocidaris bispinosa requires a spacious tank with plenty of live rock for grazing. They are herbivores and will feed on algae growing in the aquarium, but they may also require supplemental feeding with seaweed or prepared urchin diets to ensure they receive adequate nutrition. It's important to maintain stable water conditions and avoid handling the urchin, as its spines are not only sharp but also brittle and can break off easily.

Reproduction

In the wild, Prionocidaris bispinosa reproduces by releasing gametes into the water column, a process known as broadcast spawning. In the aquarium, breeding is rare, but hobbyists can encourage spawning by mimicking natural environmental cues such as changes in water temperature or lighting.

Habitat

Prionocidaris bispinosa is found in the Indo-Pacific region, typically in deeper waters on coral reefs or rocky substrates. They are adapted to a range of depths but are most commonly found at depths where light penetration is still sufficient for algal growth.