Common name: Indiana Urchin

General information

The Indiana Urchin, scientifically known as Pseudoboletia indiana, is a distinctive sea urchin species appreciated by marine enthusiasts for its unique appearance and behavior. This species is characterized by its greenish to brownish body and long, slender spines that can vary in color from tan to dark brown. Unlike some other urchin species, the Indiana Urchin is known for its selective feeding habits and relatively slow movement.

Care

In captivity, the Indiana Urchin requires a well-established aquarium with ample live rock and algae growth to graze on. It is important to maintain stable water conditions and provide a varied diet that includes both macroalgae and prepared foods formulated for herbivorous invertebrates. Care should be taken to ensure that the urchin does not become trapped or injured by aquarium equipment, as its long spines are delicate.

Reproduction

Reproduction in Pseudoboletia indiana typically involves broadcast spawning, where both males and females release their gametes into the water column for external fertilization. In the home aquarium, breeding is rare, but hobbyists can contribute to the understanding of their reproductive behaviors by observing any spawning events.

Habitat

The natural habitat of the Indiana Urchin includes coral reefs and rocky substrates in the Indo-Pacific region. They are often found at varying depths, from shallow waters to deeper reef slopes, where they play a role in controlling algae growth and contributing to the overall health of the reef ecosystem.

Geographical distribution of Pseudoboletia indiana spans across the Indo-Pacific, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific Ocean.