General Description

The spines grow to only 3 mm long, and are banded green and red with a white tip. The colour of the test is usually light brownish. Test diameter up to 2 cm.

Biology

This small, uncommon sea urchin avoids predators by living camouflaged by algae. It is occasionally washed ashore.

Habitat

Amongst algae, occasionally in intertidal areas when washed ashore, to depths greater than 120 m.

Reefs

Distribution guide

South-eastern Australia.

Species Group

Sea urchins

Depth

Shallow (1-30 m)
Deep ( > 30 m)

Water Column

On or near sea floor

Max Size

2 cm

Diet

Omnivore

Harmful

Spines can puncture skin. Venom status unknown.

Commercial Species

No

Global Dispersal

Native to Australia

Species Code

MoV 3846

Identify

• Sea Urchins

Conservation Status

• DSE Advisory List : Not listed
• EPBC Act 1999 : Not listed
• IUCN Red List : Not listed