General Description

This species is characterised by prominent pink-red spines and five bare areas void of spines that form a zigzag pattern. It resembles M. zigzag very closely and is often confused with this species. It grows to about 2 cm diameter.

Biology

This uncommon species lives in algae and is very rarely washed ashore.

Habitat

Amongst seaweed, to depth of 52 m.

Reefs

Distribution guide

Southern 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 3847

Identify

• Sea Urchins

Conservation Status

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