General Description

Some individuals with thorns that may be very long and with spines terminating in thorny "crowns". Others show little more than an irregular surface with a few small stubs. The spines are usually densely covered with algae and marine growths. Test diameter up to 4 cm.

Biology

Depending on locality, the "thorniness" of the spines of this sea urchin may vary greatly. It is a difficult species to identify in the field because it is often covered with algae and other marine growth.

Habitat

Subtidal areas, on coarse rubble and shellgrit-covered sea floor, to depths greater than 300 m.

Soft substrates

Distribution guide

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

4 cm

Diet

Omnivore

Harmful

Spines can puncture skin. Venom status unknown.

Commercial Species

No

Global Dispersal

Native to Australia

Species Code

MoV 3841

Identify

• Sea Urchins

Conservation Status

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