More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 200 litres / 52.83 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 60.0cm / 23.62inches |
| Reef Compatible | Always reef safe |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Temperature | 22.2°C / 71.96°F - 25.6°C / 78.08°F |
| Specific Gravity | 1.020-1.025 |
| Carbonate Hardness | 8-12 |
| pH | 8.1-8.4 |
General Description
The Long-spined sea urchin, scientifically known as Diadema setosum, belongs to the family Echinoidea. These creatures are commonly utilized to control various types of algae in aquarium settings, offering an effective solution for algae overgrowth. They are known for consuming a variety of algae, ranging from coralline algae to green hair algae.
Aquarium Suitability
The Long-spined sea urchin is deemed suitable for most aquarium setups, given their peaceful temperament and ability to keep algae levels in check. However, it's crucial to ensure that the tank has a sufficient algae population to sustain these creatures, as they heavily rely on it for sustenance.
Demands, Care, and Hardiness
With an average level of hardiness, these sea urchins require stable water conditions to thrive. They are sensitive to sudden changes in salinity and should be acclimated slowly when introduced to a new environment. Care should be taken with regard to their feeding habits, ensuring a varied diet that includes macroalgae like seaweed or nori, as well as microalgae such as spirulina.
Reef Suitability
Long-spined sea urchins are considered reef-safe, posing no threat to coral or other reef inhabitants. However, it's worth noting that they may inadvertently overturn pieces of coral or disturb those that are not well-attached.
Aquarium Setup
When setting up an aquarium for Long-spined sea urchins, it's important to provide ample space and ensure a minimum tank size of 200 liters. The water parameters should ideally be maintained within the following ranges: a temperature of 22.2-25.6°C, pH between 8.1-8.4, specific gravity of 1.020-1.025, and carbonate hardness (KH) of 8-12.
Behaviour
These sea urchins exhibit a peaceful temperament within the aquarium environment, mainly focusing on algae consumption as part of their natural behavior. Nonetheless, their feeding habits may lead to unintentional disturbances to coral structures.
Feeding and Diet
Long-spined sea urchins have a voracious appetite for algae, consuming significant amounts relative to their size. Along with a diverse diet of macroalgae and microalgae, they play a vital role in maintaining a balanced ecosystem within the aquarium.
Dimorphism
There is no specific information provided regarding dimorphism or captive reproduction of the Long-spined sea urchin.
Habitat and Distribution
In the wild, Diadema setosum can be found in the East Indian Ocean, Australia, Indonesia, as well as the East Pacific and Central/West Pacific regions. Their natural habitat includes reef environments where they play a crucial role in algae control and ecosystem balance.