Common name: Green Sea Urchin

General information

The Green Sea Urchin, Psammechinus microtuberculatus, is a small and colorful echinoderm that is often found in shallow, rocky marine environments. This species is known for its distinctive greenish coloration and fine, short spines that cover its body. It is a popular choice among reef aquarium hobbyists due to its algae-grazing habits, which can help control algae growth in the tank.

Care

In captivity, Green Sea Urchins require a tank with plenty of live rock and a stable environment to thrive. They are sensitive to water quality and require consistent levels of salinity, pH, and temperature. It's important to provide them with ample algae or seaweed to graze on, as well as ensuring that the tank is free from predators that might prey on them.

Reproduction

Green Sea Urchins reproduce by releasing their gametes into the water column, where fertilization occurs externally. In an aquarium setting, breeding is less common, but with optimal conditions, it is possible to observe spawning behavior. The larvae are planktonic and go through several developmental stages before settling down and metamorphosing into juvenile urchins.

Symbiosis

While Psammechinus microtuberculatus does not have any well-known symbiotic relationships akin to clownfish and anemones, it plays a crucial role in the ecosystem by controlling algae populations. This, in turn, can benefit other tank inhabitants by maintaining a balance in the aquarium's microenvironment.

Habitat

The natural habitat of the Green Sea Urchin includes rocky substrates and seagrass beds in shallow waters. They are commonly found in the Northeast Atlantic, from the British Isles to the Mediterranean Sea. In the wild, they often inhabit areas with moderate water movement, which helps in the dispersal of their gametes during the reproductive season.