description Blue Tuxedo Urchin Overview
The blue tuxedo urchin is the Indo-Pacific sea urchin Mespilia globulus. It is a relatively small species with a rounded body and contrasting blue and tan coloration, often arranged in bands or patterned areas. Because it grazes algae from hard surfaces, it is kept in some marine aquariums by people seeking a compact herbivorous invertebrate for reef-oriented systems.
help Blue Tuxedo Urchin FAQ
What species is the blue tuxedo urchin?
The blue tuxedo urchin is Mespilia globulus, a relatively small Indo-Pacific sea urchin. It is recognized by its rounded body and contrasting blue and tan coloration, which can form bands or patterned areas.
Why is the blue tuxedo urchin kept in some marine aquariums?
Mespilia globulus grazes algae from hard surfaces, so it can contribute to cleanup in some marine aquarium systems. Its small size makes it more manageable than many larger sea urchin species, although compatibility still depends on the aquarium.
Does the blue tuxedo urchin really wear a tuxedo?
The name refers to its contrasting blue and tan body pattern, not clothing or a separate subspecies. The animal uses tube feet and spines while grazing across rock and other hard surfaces.
How is Mespilia globulus different from the collector urchin?
Mespilia globulus is the smaller blue tuxedo urchin, while the collector urchin is Tripneustes gratilla. Collector urchins are especially known for holding algae, shells, and other loose material against their upper surface.
explore Explore More
Similar to Blue Tuxedo Urchin
See all arrow_forward
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
