Prionocidaris baculosa
(Lamarck, 1816)
Enter the name for this tabbed section: Description
So far, Prionocidaris baculosa is the only representative of the large subclass of urchins Cidaroidea in Oman. This relatively primitive species have large, round, blunt spines that often get incrusted by fouling as the animal wears off the epidermis on the spines. Spines are much thicker but less numerous than in other sea urchins.
The most recently developed spines have a deep burgundy color and are covered with small, uniform thorns the lower part of the spines, called the collar has typically series of small dots. Older spines are covered with algae, bryozoans and sponges but the body of the animal remains clean.
The most recently developed spines have a deep burgundy color and are covered with small, uniform thorns the lower part of the spines, called the collar has typically series of small dots. Older spines are covered with algae, bryozoans and sponges but the body of the animal remains clean.
Enter the name for this tabbed section: Distribution
Prionocidaris bacculata is found nearly everywhere in Oman typically on the lower part of the subtidal zone but not on sediment. It is otherwise found in the Western Indian Ocean, from the Red Sea to South Africa, the Seychelles and Maldives Islands.
Enter the name for this tabbed section: Ecology and Biology
Prionocidaris baculosa is a carnivorous urchins, feedings on the small animals found on the reef. During the day, it is often found hidden in crevices and below overhangs although in the deeper part of the shore, it may be found on the substrates.