General Description

The test is almost spherical in shape and usually coloured pale greenish with dark green spines. Occasionally the spines are whitish and the test colour can be darker and more patterned. Spines may grow to a length of 5 mm. Test diameter up to 6 cm.

Biology

This common species of sea urchin is variably coloured and has caused much confusion with other species in its genus group as well as the genus Holopneustes.

Habitat

Amongst algae, in shallow waters of bays, to depth of 70 m.

Reefs

Coastal shores

Distribution guide

New Zealand and southern Australia.

Species Group

Sea urchins

Depth

Shore (0-1 m)
Shallow (1-30 m)
Deep ( > 30 m)

Water Column

On or near sea floor

Max Size

6 cm

Diet

Omnivore

Harmful

Spines can puncture skin. Venom status unknown.

Commercial Species

No

Global Dispersal

Recorded in Australia

Species Code

MoV 3845

Identify

• Sea Urchins

Conservation Status

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