Variegated Urchin
Variegated Urchin
Algae Eater
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The Variegated Sea Urchin, Lytechinus variegatus, has been a popular invertebrate in saltwater aquariums for many years. Though these urchins have previously been captive bred for research purposes, ORA is pleased to make these aquacultured urchins commercially available to the Aquarium Industry.
The Variegated Sea Urchin, a type of pincushion urchin, originates from the tropical waters of the Western Atlantic and can usually be found roving shallow sea grass flats and other sandy substrates. In the home aquarium, these urchins are extremely effective herbivores, rapidly consuming nuisance algae. Consequently, aquarists must be sure to provide supplementary macro algae if none is available in the aquarium.
While roaming the aquarium these urchins will frequently display an interesting “covering behavior”. Whether for camouflage or protection from UV radiation they can be observed holding onto small rocks, shells, and pieces of macro algae with their tube feet. ORA Variegated Sea Urchins will certainly be a hard working and beneficial addition to any aquarium.
Quick Care Guide
Care Level: Easy
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Temperament: Peaceful
Diet: Herbivore
Reef Safe: Yes, with caution
Adult Size: About 3 inches across
Region: Aquacultured (native to the Western Atlantic and Caribbean)
Scientific Name: Lytechinus variegatus
Tank Requirements
Place this aquacultured urchin in an established aquarium with visible algae and plenty of rock or glass surface to graze. One urchin for every 30–50 gallons keeps competition for food in check.
Diet and Feeding
The Variegated Sea Urchin is a strong grazer of film algae, hair algae, and diatoms, and it will also scrape at coralline algae. When natural algae becomes scarce, offer dried seaweed or algae wafers several times per week so it does not go hungry.
Temperament and Tankmates
This urchin is peaceful with fish, corals, and other invertebrates. Avoid triggerfish, puffers, large wrasses, and harlequin shrimp, which prey on urchins.
Reef Compatibility
The Variegated Urchin is reef safe with caution. It will not eat corals, but it may move or topple unsecured frags as it forages, so glue loose pieces in place.
Water Parameters
Temperature: 75–80°F
Specific Gravity: 1.024–1.026
pH: 8.1–8.4
Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH
Drip acclimate slowly, as urchins are sensitive to salinity swings. Invertebrates are highly sensitive to copper, and copper-treated water or medications should never be added to an aquarium that houses them.
Common Considerations
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Aquacultured: Captive-raised urchins adapt readily to aquarium life.
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Supplement algae: Add seaweed or wafers once nuisance algae is gone.
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Secure frags: Its covering behavior can relocate loose items.
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Watch for spine loss: Losing spines is an early sign of stress.
