Purple Urchin - Pseudoboletia sp.
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The Purple Urchin (Pseudoboletia sp.) is a striking and beneficial reef invertebrate known for its vivid purple coloration and constant grazing activity. This urchin helps control algae growth on rockwork and glass, making it both a functional and visually interesting addition to established marine aquariums.
Common Name: Purple Urchin
Scientific Name: Pseudoboletia sp.
Family: Toxopneustidae
Size: Up to 4 inches (10 cm) including spines
Temperament: Peaceful
Difficulty: Moderate
Reef Safe: Yes, with caution
Native Region: Indo-Pacific reef environments, typically found grazing on algae across rocky reef surfaces.
Tank Size: Minimum of 30 gallons
Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)
pH: 8.1–8.4
Salinity: 1.024–1.026
Decor: Established live rock with natural algae growth; stable rock structures are important as urchins can dislodge loose frags while moving.
• Diet: Primarily herbivorous—feeds on film algae, coralline algae, and seaweed sheets if natural algae is limited.
• Behavior: Constant grazer that may carry small objects or frags on its back as camouflage.
• Compatibility: Safe with fish and corals but may scrape delicate coralline or loosen unsecured coral frags.
• Water Quality: Sensitive to rapid parameter swings; best suited for mature, stable reef systems.