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Colored Short Spine Urchin
| Scientific Name | Mespilla sp. |
| Diet | Herbivore; algae, filamentous algae, scavenger |
| Alt Common Name | Globe, Sphere, and Tuxedo Urchin |
| Family | Temnopleuridae |
| Origin | Palau |
| Aquarist Level | Novice |
| Reef Safe | With Caution † |
| Coloration | Varies; Blue, Pink, or Green |
| Disposition | Peaceful † |
| Hardiness | Very |
| Mature Size | 2 inches - body diameter |
| Reproduction Method | Gamete Release - planktonic larvae |
| Sexual Dimorphism | None |
| Venomous | Yes (spines) |
Notes: These urchins are very useful in the aquarium for the control of hair algae. This and other urchins are preyed upon by triggers and wrasses, who flip the urchin over by blowing a stream of water at it.
† May attempt to eat some corals. Primarily feeds on algae, including coralline, and detritus.