Quick Stats
Easy |
Temperament
Peaceful |
Color Form
Brown, Purple |
Diet
Herbivore |
Reef Compatible
Yes |
sg 1.023-1.025, 72-78°F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4 |
Max. Size
3″ |
Family
Echinometridae |
Minimum Tank Size
20 gallons |
|
Description
The Rock Urchin (Echinometra lucunter) is a hardy, peaceful herbivore ideal for aquariums with moderate to high amounts of algae. Recognizable by its brown to purple coloration and long spines, this urchin plays a valuable role as part of a cleanup crew, grazing on algae to help keep aquariums clean and balanced. It is well-suited for reef aquariums, as it does not harm corals or other invertebrates.
While generally reef-safe, the Rock Urchin may sometimes move small rocks or corals while foraging, so it’s recommended to secure any loose items within the tank. It thrives best in tanks with ample live rock for grazing and hiding. In addition to its natural algae diet, supplemental feeding with dried seaweed or algae wafers may be beneficial if algae resources become limited.
With its peaceful disposition and ease of care, the Rock Urchin is an excellent choice for beginner and experienced aquarists alike. It requires stable water conditions but is quite adaptable, making it a resilient addition to various tank environments.
Approximate Purchase Size: 1″ to 2″