Family

Common name: Heart Urchins

Scientific name: Spatangidae

Spatangidae, commonly known as Heart Urchins or Spatangoid Sea Urchins, are a family of echinoderms characterized by their heart-shaped test and burrowing lifestyle. They are found in sandy or muddy substrates where they play a role in bioturbation. These urchins have a reduced spination compared to other sea urchins, which aids in their burrowing behavior. In the aquarium, they can be beneficial by turning over the substrate, but they require a deep sand bed to thrive and may be sensitive to water quality changes.

  1. Purple Urchin on a Rock
    Common name: Purple heart urchin
    Scientific name: Spatangus purpureus