Urchin – Pincushion

Pincushion Urchin Care Tips:

Minimum Tank Size: 20 Gallons

Max Size: Up to 7.5cm (3″)

Diet: Herbivore

Temperament: Peaceful

Lifespan: Up to 200 years!

Scientific Name: Lytechinus Variegatus

Other Names: Shortspine Urchin

Coral Safe: Yes

Invertebrate Safe: Yes

The pincushion urchin is one of the most common urchins seen in the hobby. Their scientific name is Lytechinus Variegatus but they are often referred to by their common names the pincushion urchin or the shortspine urchin. The pincushion urchin is a part of the Toxopneustidae family. These urchins can get up to 4” and their lifespan is up to 200 years in ideal conditions. Urchins are herbivores that will eat any type of algae, if there isn’t enough algae present in the tank they can be supplemented with algae sheets. Their minimum tank size is 20 gallons. Pincushion urchins are considered peaceful and reef safe. Pincushion urchins are nocturnal and will hide mainly during the day. Sea urchins are nocturnal which means they prefer to feed during the night, giving them algae rocks in the evening instead of in the morning would be more effective.