Pink Shortspine Urchin

Species/Animal: (Invertebrates) Pink Shortspine Urchin (Echinometra sp.)

The Pink Shortspine Urchin is a peaceful species that is generally reef-safe with caution, admired for its compact, rounded body, short spines with pink to reddish hues, and excellent algae-grazing abilities. Their vivid coloration and active foraging make them both a functional and decorative addition to marine aquariums.

Males typically cannot be visually distinguished from females, as sea urchins are not sexually dimorphic, while juveniles are smaller with proportionally shorter and lighter-colored spines that deepen in color as they mature.

They reach about 2–4 inches in size and should be housed in aquariums of at least 30 gallons, with ample live rock for grazing and hiding spaces. Ensure stable aquascaping, as they may dislodge loose rocks or coral frags while foraging.

Maintain stable water parameters:

• Salinity: 1.020–1.025

• Temperature: 72–79°F

• pH: 8.1–8.4

A secure lid is not necessary, as urchins do not jump, but they can climb glass and move objects within the tank.

Diet: Primarily herbivorous, feeding on microalgae, coralline algae, and detritus. In aquariums with insufficient algae, their diet should be supplemented with nori (dried seaweed), algae wafers, or sinking pellets. Occasionally, they may accept small meaty foods like mysis or brine shrimp, but plant-based food sources are essential.

With proper care, the Pink Shortspine Urchin is a hardy, attractive, and beneficial addition to reef aquariums, both for its utility in algae control and its unique coloration.

algae, etc.], and with proper care this fish makes a standout addition to the aquarium.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.