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ALEXANDRE MEINESZ

Long-spined sea urchin

In Dive.Explo360: Mediterranean · Northeast Atlantic · Atlantic Ocean

Inconspicuous by day, the Long-spined sea urchin often leaves its long spines emerging from a rocky fissure. This spectacular outline conceals an animal that has become rare in some Mediterranean areas. It contributes to seabed balance by consuming algae and debris.

Habitat de Long-spined sea urchin Habitat
Sand, Detrital bottom, Rocky habitat, Coralligenous habitat
Profondeur de Long-spined sea urchin Depth
1-70 m
Groupe biologique de Long-spined sea urchin Group
Echinoderm
Rôle écologique de Long-spined sea urchin Role
Herbivore

WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE?

This dark sea urchin is recognised by its small central body, called a test, and especially by its very long, thin and fragile spines radiating all around it. The test measures a few centimetres in diameter, while the spines can be much longer, giving it a delicate, spread-out appearance. Its colour is generally black or dark brown, making it inconspicuous in its surroundings.

WHERE DOES IT LIVE?

It mainly lives on rocky seabeds, often sheltered from direct light. It is frequently found hidden in holes, beneath overhangs or in crevices, sometimes at considerable depths.

WHAT DOES IT EAT?

Its diet is varied: it consumes algae, organic debris and different attached organisms such as some sponges. It can also collect particles suspended in the water.

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Sandy seabed species Detrital seabed species Rocky seabed species Coralligenous habitat species

Same ecological role and depth

Herbivorous species

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