Provide an aquarium with ample hiding places and room to roam. Being a nocturnal creature, the Black Longspine Urchin will hide during the day and only come out at night to forage for food such as algae and seaweed. These urchins are an excellent algae controller for an aggressive aquarium where other invertebrates would be eaten. When approached by a fish, these urchins will sense their presence, and will defend itself by directing its spines towards its offender.

It is very sensitive to high levels of copper-based medications and will not tolerate high nitrate levels. If it begins to shed its spines, it is a sign of very poor water quality.

Be aware, it is venomous, with its sting being roughly equivalent to that of a bee sting.

The diet may be supplemented with dried seaweed.

Approximate Purchase Size: Small: 1-1/2″ to 2″; Medium: 2″ to 3″ Large: 3″ to 4″