Variegated Pincushion Sea Urchin - Lytechinus variegatus
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The Variegated Pincushion Sea Urchin (Lytechinus variegatus) is a hardy, attractive urchin known for its rounded shape and colorful spines, which can range from green to purple to mottled patterns. This peaceful grazer is highly effective at controlling nuisance algae and is a valuable addition to reef aquariums that can accommodate its constant grazing and occasional rearranging of loose items.
Common Name: Variegated Pincushion Sea Urchin
Scientific Name: Lytechinus variegatus
Family: Toxopneustidae
Size: Up to 4 inches (10 cm)
Temperament: Peaceful
Difficulty: Easy
Reef Safe: With caution
Native Region: Found throughout the Western Atlantic and Caribbean, commonly inhabiting seagrass beds, sandy areas, and shallow reef zones.
Tank Size: Minimum of 30 gallons
Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)
pH: 8.0–8.4
Salinity: 1.023–1.025
Substrate: Requires stable rock structures and abundant algae; may pick up small objects for camouflage.
• Algae Control: Excellent grazer of film algae, hair algae, and various microalgae.
• Behavior: May carry small items (shells, rubble, frags) on its spines—secure loose corals to prevent displacement.
• Diet: Herbivorous—supplement with dried seaweed if natural algae becomes limited.
• Tankmates: Generally peaceful; avoid housing with aggressive crabs or predators that may damage the urchin.