Ouriço Espinhos de Lápis
(Prionocidaris verticillata)

Description

Thorn-spined Sea Urchin: A Unique Benthic Jewel for Your Tank

Add an intriguing element to your marine aquarium with the Thorn-spined Sea Urchin. Its distinctive spines and diligent scavenging habits make it a fascinating and beneficial resident.

Overview
The Thorn-spined Sea Urchin (*Plococidaris verticillata*) boasts a robust, spherical test, growing up to 12 cm. Its most striking feature is its primary spines, which are sparsely arranged but very sturdy, resembling miniature turrets with irregular, multi-tiered points. This species is predominantly nocturnal, spending its days hidden beneath rockwork or ledges, emerging after dark to forage actively across the substrate.

Care Level
Caring for the Thorn-spined Sea Urchin is of average difficulty, suitable for dedicated marine aquarists. While peaceful towards most fish, it is not considered strictly reef-safe, as it may graze on some corals, sponges, and desirable coralline algae. It requires a stable marine environment and is sensitive to sudden changes in salinity.

Tank Essentials
A minimum aquarium size of 100 liters is recommended to house this unique invertebrate. Maintain stable marine water parameters with temperatures between 24-28°C and a pH range of 8.1-8.4. Ensure your tank provides ample rockwork for daytime hiding spots and a diverse substrate for nocturnal foraging.

Diet
The Thorn-spined Sea Urchin is an omnivorous scavenger, feeding on algae, bryozoans, and detritus. It is also known to consume sponges, worms, and even coral polyps. Supplement its diet with algae sheets, calcium-rich foods like cuttlebone, or specialized invertebrate pellets if natural food sources are insufficient.

Why Buy From Us
When you buy Thorn-spined Sea Urchin online from us, you’re choosing robust, healthy marine invertebrates carefully acclimated for transport. We prioritize ethical sourcing and secure, humane shipping, ensuring your new Thorn-spined Sea Urchin arrives ready to thrive in your aquarium, contributing to a vibrant, healthy marine ecosystem.

• Scientific Name: *Plococidaris verticillata*
• Common Name / Variant: Thorn-spined Sea Urchin (formerly Prionocidaris verticillata)
• Maximum Size: 12 cm
• Origin: Indo-West Pacific Ocean
• pH Range: 8.1–8.4
• Temperature: 24–28°C
• Lifespan: [data unavailable]
• Swimming Zone: Bottom

Bring the unique Thorn-spined Sea Urchin to your marine tank today!