Pincushion Urchin (Lytechinus variegatus)

Invertebrate in the family Toxopneustidae. Easy care. Reef Safe with Caution.

Pincushion Urchin

Quick facts

Scientific nameLytechinus variegatus
FamilyToxopneustidae
Care levelEasy
Reef safetyReef Safe with Caution
TemperamentPeaceful
Adult size2.5 in
Minimum tank size55 gallons
Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.023-1.026

Diet and feeding

Herbivorous grazer. Feeds on algae, macroalgae, and detritus. Supplement with dried seaweed and quality herbivore pellets.

Origin and habitat

Western Atlantic, from North Carolina to the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico.

Log Pincushion Urchin in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Pincushion Urchin alongside everything else in your reef.