Echinothrix diadema
(Linnaeus, 1758)
Enter the name for this tabbed section: Description
This is yet another common black "long spines" sea urchin. It is found in shallow water, typically between the surface down to 15 or even deeper. It has spines considerably shorter than that of both Diadema species and because of its very dark color is extremely difficult to photograph agains the light background of the reef.
Often, the spines are oriented radially into 5 distinct "clutches" that gives this species a "disorganized" look. This is particularly visible on small specimens.
Often, the spines are oriented radially into 5 distinct "clutches" that gives this species a "disorganized" look. This is particularly visible on small specimens.
Enter the name for this tabbed section: Distribution
E. diadema is found nearly everywhere in Oman on shallow sediments. It is an Indian Ocean species although there are records in the Western-Pacific.
Enter the name for this tabbed section: Ecology and Biology
Echinothrix diadema is found typically among Diadema setosum or D. paucispinum.