Pincushion Urchin

The Pincushion Urchin (Lytechinus variegatus) is a charming and highly effective algae-eating invertebrate, featuring short, densely-packed spines that give it a soft, pincushion-like appearance. Available in various colors including green, red, purple, and white.

Care Level & Requirements

• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Minimum Tank Size: 30+ gallons
• Diet: Herbivore - algae grazer
• Reef Safe: Yes

What to Expect

The Pincushion Urchin is an excellent addition to any reef cleanup crew, constantly grazing on hair algae, film algae, and other nuisance algae throughout your aquarium. Unlike long-spined varieties, its shorter spines make it safer to work around and less likely to damage corals or knock over frags as it moves.

Behavior & Compatibility

This peaceful herbivore is completely reef-safe and will not harm corals or other invertebrates. Pincushion Urchins are active both day and night, methodically moving across rockwork, glass, and substrate in search of algae. They exhibit the charming behavior of decorating themselves with shells, small rocks, and algae fragments, which they hold with their tube feet for camouflage and protection.

Feeding

While they primarily feed on naturally occurring algae, supplement their diet with dried seaweed (nori) or algae wafers if natural algae growth is limited. A well-established aquarium with live rock provides the best environment for continuous grazing.

Tank Considerations

Pincushion Urchins are generally safe around corals due to their smaller size and shorter spines. They require stable water parameters and are sensitive to copper-based medications. Ensure adequate calcium levels to support healthy spine and test growth.

Acclimation

Use a slow drip acclimation method over 45-60 minutes. Urchins are sensitive to changes in salinity, pH, and specific gravity. Never expose to air during acclimation or transfer, as air bubbles can become trapped under their test and cause harm.

Our Live Arrival Guarantee

Every Pincushion Urchin ships with our live arrival guarantee, carefully packed to ensure it arrives healthy and ready to control algae in your reef system.