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Stomopneustes variolaris

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description Stomopneustes variolaris Overview

Stomopneustes variolaris is a species of long-spined sea urchin commonly known as the black sea urchin. First described by Jean-Baptiste Lamarck in 1816, it is the sole surviving member of the family Stomopneustidae. The species is native to the Indo-Pacific region, where it inhabits coral reefs and rocky intertidal zones. It plays an ecological role by grazing on algae, which helps maintain the balance of the reef ecosystem.

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Where does Stomopneustes variolaris, the black sea urchin, live?

Stomopneustes variolaris is native to the Indo-Pacific region, where it inhabits shallow coral reefs and rocky coastal areas. It is commonly found in areas with strong wave action along tropical coastlines.

What family does Stomopneustes variolaris belong to?

Stomopneustes variolaris is the sole surviving member of the family Stomopneustidae, making it a taxonomically unique species. It was first described by the French naturalist Jean-Baptiste Lamarck in 1816.

Are black sea urchins (Stomopneustes variolaris) dangerous to touch?

Like many long-spined sea urchins, Stomopneustes variolaris has sharp spines that can puncture skin and cause painful injuries if handled carelessly. The spines are brittle and can break off in wounds, making removal difficult.

Can you eat Stomopneustes variolaris sea urchins?

While some Indo-Pacific sea urchin species are harvested for their edible gonads (uni), Stomopneustes variolaris is not among the most commonly consumed species. It is more often encountered as a reef-dwelling organism than as a commercial food source.

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