Family

Common name: Sand Dollars

Scientific name: Clypeasteridae

Clypeasteridae, commonly known as sand dollars, are a family of sea urchins characterized by their flattened, burrowing lifestyle. They are found in sandy or muddy substrates in shallow waters. Sand dollars have a fascinating petal-like pattern on their upper surface, which is actually a system of pores that aid in respiration. They feed on detritus, microalgae, and organic material, making them excellent sandbed cleaners in aquariums. Hobbyists appreciate them for their unique shape and behavior, but they require stable water conditions and a sandy substrate to thrive.

  1. Close up of sea urchin Sand dollar, Cake urchin or Sea Biscuits on sandy bottom in sun glare, Red sea, Egypt
    Common name: Sand Dollar
    Scientific name: Clypeaster humilis
  2. Close up of sea urchin Sand dollar, Cake urchin or Sea Biscuits on sandy bottom in sun glare, Red sea, Egypt
    Common name: Sand Dollar
    Scientific name: Clypeaster reticulatus
  3. Common name: sea biscuit
    Scientific name: Clypeaster rosaceus
  4. A Sand Dollar (Clypeaster subdepressus) on the beach
    Common name: sand dollar
    Scientific name: Clypeaster subdepressus