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Cidaris cidaris

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description Cidaris cidaris Overview

Cidaris cidaris is a species of sea urchin belonging to the family Cidaridae, commonly referred to as pencil urchins. First described by Carl Linnaeus in 1758, this echinoid is characterized by its thick, smooth, and blunt primary spines that resemble stubby pencils. It inhabits deep-water marine environments, typically found on the seabed of the eastern Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. Like other sea urchins, it uses its specialized mouthparts, known as Aristotle's lantern, to graze on organisms encrusting hard substrates.

help Cidaris cidaris FAQ

What does the Cidaris cidaris sea urchin look like?

*Cidaris cidaris* is commonly referred to as a pencil urchin due to its thick, smooth, and blunt primary spines that resemble stubby pencils. These distinct spines sit atop a hardened, circular test (shell).

Who first scientifically described the Cidaris cidaris?

This species of sea urchin was first officially described by the Swedish taxonomist Carl Linnaeus in 1758. It belongs to the Cidaridae family, which represents a very primitive group of echinoids.

Where does the Cidaris cidaris live?

This species typically inhabits the deeper, colder marine waters of the northeastern Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. They are often found resting on rocky substrates where they graze on organic matter.

Are pencil urchins like Cidaris cidaris reef safe for aquariums?

Unlike some smaller urchin species, *Cidaris cidaris* is generally not recommended for delicate reef aquariums. Their thick, blunt spines can easily knock over corals, and they may occasionally consume calcareous algae.

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