description Microcyphus rousseaui Overview
Microcyphus rousseaui is a tropical regular sea urchin in the family Temnopleuridae, with the taxonomic authority Agassiz in Agassiz and Desor, 1846. It is known as the zigzag or Rousseau's urchin because its test has broad, bare zigzag bands alternating with areas covered by short spines. Records include the Red Sea and the western Indian Ocean, so the species is relevant to identification work on Indo-Pacific echinoderms. [DORIS species account](https://doris.ffessm.fr/Especes/Microcyphus-rousseaui-Oursin-de-Rousseau-4521)
help Microcyphus rousseaui FAQ
What is Microcyphus rousseaui commonly called?
Microcyphus rousseaui is commonly called the zigzag urchin or Rousseau’s urchin. The name refers to the broad, bare zigzag bands on its test, or shell.
Which family does Microcyphus rousseaui belong to?
It is a tropical regular sea urchin in the family Temnopleuridae. Its taxonomic authority is Agassiz in Agassiz and Desor, 1846.
How can Microcyphus rousseaui be recognized?
Its test has broad, bare zigzag bands alternating with areas covered by short spines. This contrasting pattern is the feature behind its common name.
Is Microcyphus rousseaui a regular or irregular sea urchin?
It is a regular sea urchin. That means its body has the broadly radial form associated with familiar round sea urchins, rather than the bilateral shape of sand dollars.
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