Blue Tuxedo Urchin - Mespilia globulus
- In stock, ready to ship
- Backordered, shipping soon
The Blue Tuxedo Urchin (Mespilia globulus) is a small, colorful, and active marine urchin prized for its vibrant blue coloration and algae-grazing behavior. This peaceful invertebrate is an excellent addition to reef aquariums, helping control nuisance algae and maintain clean surfaces.
Common Name: Blue Tuxedo Urchin
Scientific Name: Mespilia globulus
Family: Temnopleuridae
Size: Up to 2 inches (5 cm)
Temperament: Peaceful
Difficulty: Easy
Reef Safe: Yes
Native Region: Found throughout the Indo-Pacific, commonly inhabiting coral reef flats and rocky substrates with abundant algae growth.
Tank Size: Minimum of 10 gallons
Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)
pH: 8.0–8.4
Salinity: 1.023–1.025
Substrate: Live rock and rubble with algae-covered surfaces for grazing.
• Algae Control: Grazes on hair algae, film algae, and detritus, helping maintain clean tank surfaces.
• Behavior: Peaceful and active; may move across rocks and substrate while feeding.
• Diet: Herbivorous—supplement with dried seaweed or algae wafers if natural algae is scarce.
• Tankmates: Compatible with most reef fish and invertebrates; avoid predatory crabs or fish that may harm the urchin.