description Echinothrix calamaris Overview
Echinothrix calamaris, or banded hatpin urchin, is a regular sea-urchin belonging to the Diadematidae family. This extant species inhabits the Indo-Pacific region and is notable for its striking pattern of alternating dark and light spines. It’s primarily studied by marine biologists researching echinoid diversity and distribution, particularly within the warmer waters of that area.
help Echinothrix calamaris FAQ
Are the spines of Echinothrix calamaris venomous?
Its long, fragile spines can puncture skin, and some of the shorter spines carry venom glands. Divers and aquarium keepers should avoid handling the urchin because broken spine fragments can remain embedded.
How can you distinguish Echinothrix calamaris from Echinothrix diadema?
Echinothrix calamaris has two visibly different sets of spines and often shows pale or banded interambulacral spines. Identification is variable, however, and research has shown that not every E. calamaris individual has the same conspicuous banding.
Where does the banded hatpin urchin live?
It occupies tropical Indo-Pacific reefs, from the Red Sea and eastern Africa to Hawaii and French Polynesia. During daylight it commonly shelters in reef crevices and becomes more active after dark.
What does Echinothrix calamaris eat?
It grazes mainly on algae and other organic material growing on reef surfaces. This feeding can help limit algal growth, although an aquarium specimen may also scrape coralline algae and unsecured surfaces.
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