Colored Short Spine Urchin

Colored Short Spine Urchins, Mespilla sp., are found on several reefs of the Indo Pacific region. This pincushion on legs has a wide range of food choices that are primarily met by eating algae and pieces of uneaten food. Also referred to as a tuxedo or royal urchin, this urchin has short spines that are used to deter other animals from attempting to eat it.

Notes: The spines of the urchin can inflict a sting with similar allergic reactions to a bee or wasp sting.

Detailed Information about this animal.