{"title":"Urchins","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"urchin-white","title":"Pin Cushion Urchin","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Pin Cushion Urchin (\u003cem\u003eLytechinus variegatus\u003c\/em\u003e) is a marine invertebrate known for its distinctive appearance and role in maintaining aquarium health. In aquarium settings, it serves as an effective algae grazer, contributing to the maintenance of a balanced and healthy environment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEssential Information:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCommon Names:\u003c\/strong\u003e Pin Cushion Urchin, Variegated Urchin\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eScientific Name:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem\u003eLytechinus variegatus\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFamily:\u003c\/strong\u003e Toxopneustidae\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Habitat:\u003c\/strong\u003e Native to the Indo-Pacific region, commonly found in coral reef ecosystems.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMaximum Size:\u003c\/strong\u003e Up to 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLifespan:\u003c\/strong\u003e Typically 5 to 10 years.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLevel of Difficulty:\u003c\/strong\u003e Moderate; requires stable water conditions and appropriate tank mates.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eReef Safe:\u003c\/strong\u003e Generally considered reef-safe, but caution is advised with certain corals.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAppearance \u0026amp; Physical Traits:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eColoration \u0026amp; Pattern:\u003c\/strong\u003e Varies from red to purple to white and blue, with uniform spines.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBody Shape \u0026amp; Structure:\u003c\/strong\u003e Oval to round body covered with hundreds of uniform spines; mouth located on the underside.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat \u0026amp; Environmental Needs:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMinimum Tank Size:\u003c\/strong\u003e At least 30 gallons (114 liters) to provide adequate space.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWater Temperature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Maintain between 72°F and 78°F (22°C to 25°C).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003epH Level:\u003c\/strong\u003e Keep between 8.1 and 8.4.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpecific Gravity:\u003c\/strong\u003e Optimal range is 1.023 to 1.025.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAquascape:\u003c\/strong\u003e Provide stable rockwork or substrate for attachment; ensure the urchin is securely positioned to prevent movement.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDiet \u0026amp; Feeding:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDiet Type:\u003c\/strong\u003e Herbivorous\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePreferred Foods:\u003c\/strong\u003e Algae, including macroalgae and detritus.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFeeding Frequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e In a well-established tank with sufficient algae, supplemental feeding may not be necessary. If algae is lacking, provide dried algae sheets, spinach, or other greens.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBehavior \u0026amp; Compatibility:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTemperament:\u003c\/strong\u003e Peaceful and non-aggressive.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSocial Behavior:\u003c\/strong\u003e Solitary; does not require companions but can coexist with other peaceful tank inhabitants.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTank Mate Compatibility:\u003c\/strong\u003e Compatible with most reef-safe fish and invertebrates. Avoid housing with predatory species that may harm them.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eActivity Level:\u003c\/strong\u003e Primarily nocturnal; may be more active during the night.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCare Considerations \u0026amp; Additional Notes:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEase of Care:\u003c\/strong\u003e Moderate; requires stable water parameters and appropriate tank mates.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpecial Requirements:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ensure high-quality water with low nutrient levels to prevent excessive algae growth.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBreeding Info:\u003c\/strong\u003e Reproduction in captivity is uncommon; they are broadcast spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAdditional Notes:\u003c\/strong\u003e Regular monitoring of water quality is essential. Ensure there is sufficient algae or be prepared to provide supplemental feeding.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Inverts Bay","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42451789643915,"sku":"4245178964","price":45.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0628\/8578\/9835\/files\/pincushion-urchin_0a0eeba7-bf16-4839-8bbe-1e25316676ba.jpg?v=1739112147"},{"product_id":"urchin-common-black","title":"Common Black Sea Urchin","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Common Black Sea Urchin (\u003cem\u003eDiadema setosum\u003c\/em\u003e), also known as the Black Longspine Urchin, is a marine invertebrate recognized for its distinctive black coloration and long, slender spines. In aquarium settings, it serves as an effective algae grazer, contributing to the maintenance of a balanced and healthy environment.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEssential Information:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCommon Names:\u003c\/strong\u003e Black Longspine Urchin, Black Sea Urchin\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eScientific Name:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem\u003eDiadema setosum\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFamily:\u003c\/strong\u003e Diadematidae\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Habitat:\u003c\/strong\u003e Native to the Indo-Pacific region, commonly found in coral reef ecosystems.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMaximum Size:\u003c\/strong\u003e Up to 8 inches (20 cm) in diameter.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLifespan:\u003c\/strong\u003e Typically 5 to 10 years.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLevel of Difficulty:\u003c\/strong\u003e Moderate; requires stable water conditions and appropriate tank mates.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eReef Safe:\u003c\/strong\u003e Generally considered reef-safe, but caution is advised with certain corals.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAppearance \u0026amp; Physical Traits:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eColoration \u0026amp; Pattern:\u003c\/strong\u003e Black body with long, slender spines; some individuals may exhibit iridescent blue spots.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBody Shape \u0026amp; Structure:\u003c\/strong\u003e Globular body covered with movable spines; mouth located on the underside.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat \u0026amp; Environmental Needs:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMinimum Tank Size:\u003c\/strong\u003e At least 30 gallons (114 liters) to provide adequate space.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWater Temperature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Maintain between 72°F and 78°F (22°C to 25°C).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003epH Level:\u003c\/strong\u003e Keep between 8.1 and 8.4.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpecific Gravity:\u003c\/strong\u003e Optimal range is 1.023 to 1.025.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAquascape:\u003c\/strong\u003e Provide stable rockwork or substrate for attachment; ensure the urchin is securely positioned to prevent movement.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDiet \u0026amp; Feeding:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDiet Type:\u003c\/strong\u003e Herbivorous\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePreferred Foods:\u003c\/strong\u003e Algae, including macroalgae and detritus.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFeeding Frequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e In a well-established tank with sufficient algae, supplemental feeding may not be necessary. If algae is lacking, provide dried algae sheets, spinach, or other greens.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBehavior \u0026amp; Compatibility:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTemperament:\u003c\/strong\u003e Peaceful and non-aggressive.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSocial Behavior:\u003c\/strong\u003e Solitary; does not require companions but can coexist with other peaceful tank inhabitants.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTank Mate Compatibility:\u003c\/strong\u003e Compatible with most reef-safe fish and invertebrates. Avoid housing with predatory species that may harm them.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eActivity Level:\u003c\/strong\u003e Primarily nocturnal; may be more active during the night.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCare Considerations \u0026amp; Additional Notes:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEase of Care:\u003c\/strong\u003e Moderate; requires stable water parameters and appropriate tank mates.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpecial Requirements:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ensure high-quality water with low nutrient levels to prevent excessive algae growth.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBreeding Info:\u003c\/strong\u003e Reproduction in captivity is uncommon; they are broadcast spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAdditional Notes:\u003c\/strong\u003e Regular monitoring of water quality is essential. Ensure there is sufficient algae or be prepared to provide supplemental feeding.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Inverts Bay","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42718766334091,"sku":"4271876633","price":30.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0628\/8578\/9835\/files\/common-black-urchin.jpg?v=1739073816"},{"product_id":"tuxedo-urchin-test","title":"Tuxedo Urchin","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Tuxedo Urchin (\u003cem\u003eMespilia globulus\u003c\/em\u003e) is a vibrant marine invertebrate renowned for its algae-grazing abilities and distinctive appearance. Its unique coloration and beneficial role in maintaining aquarium cleanliness make it a popular choice among reef aquarists.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEssential Information:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCommon Names:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tuxedo Urchin, Tuxedo Sea Urchin\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eScientific Name:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem\u003eMespilia globulus\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFamily:\u003c\/strong\u003e Temnopleuridae\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Habitat:\u003c\/strong\u003e Native to the Indo-Pacific region, commonly found in shallow reef environments.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMaximum Size:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 3 inches (7–8 cm) in diameter when fully grown; in aquariums, they often average around 2 inches (5 cm).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLifespan:\u003c\/strong\u003e In captivity, they can live up to 3 years, with an average lifespan of 1–2 years.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLevel of Difficulty:\u003c\/strong\u003e Easy; suitable for aquarists of all experience levels.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eReef Safe:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes; they are considered reef-safe and beneficial for algae control.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAppearance \u0026amp; Physical Traits:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eColoration \u0026amp; Pattern:\u003c\/strong\u003e Features a thick, conical shell with coloration ranging from creamy-white with reddish-brown patches to purplish, greenish, or brown hues. The shell consists of up to 10 whorls spiraling around the central axis.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBody Shape \u0026amp; Structure:\u003c\/strong\u003e The shell has a distinctive conical shape with a sharp point and flat base, setting it apart from other snail species.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat \u0026amp; Environmental Needs:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMinimum Tank Size:\u003c\/strong\u003e A minimum of 10 gallons (38 liters) is recommended per snail to ensure adequate food supply and space.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWater Temperature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ideal range is between 74–79°F (23–26°C).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003epH Level:\u003c\/strong\u003e Maintain a pH between 8.1 and 8.4.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpecific Gravity:\u003c\/strong\u003e Optimal specific gravity ranges from 1.023 to 1.025.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAquascape:\u003c\/strong\u003e Provide ample live rock and sandy substrate to offer grazing surfaces and hiding spots. Ensure the tank is well-established with sufficient algae growth to support their dietary needs.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDiet \u0026amp; Feeding:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDiet Type:\u003c\/strong\u003e Herbivorous grazer\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePreferred Foods:\u003c\/strong\u003e Primarily consumes various forms of algae, including diatoms, film algae, and cyanobacteria. In well-established tanks, they often find enough natural food sources. If algae levels are low, supplementation with algae wafers or blanched vegetables can be provided.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFeeding Frequency:\u003c\/strong\u003e Generally self-sufficient in established tanks; monitor their condition and supplement as needed.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBehavior \u0026amp; Compatibility:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTemperament:\u003c\/strong\u003e Peaceful and non-aggressive\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSocial Behavior:\u003c\/strong\u003e Solitary; does not require companions but can coexist with other peaceful tank inhabitants.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTank Mate Compatibility:\u003c\/strong\u003e Compatible with most reef-safe fish and invertebrates. Avoid housing with predatory species that may harm them.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eActivity Level:\u003c\/strong\u003e Primarily nocturnal but may also be active during daylight hours.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCare Considerations \u0026amp; Additional Notes:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEase of Care:\u003c\/strong\u003e Hardy and adaptable, making them suitable for beginners. They can right themselves if overturned, a trait not common in all snail species.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpecial Requirements:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ensure stable water parameters and avoid sudden changes in salinity or temperature. Acclimate slowly when introducing to a new tank to prevent shock.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBreeding Info:\u003c\/strong\u003e Breeding in captivity is uncommon but possible. They are broadcast spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column. Successful breeding may require specific conditions, such as water quality and the presence of both sexes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAdditional Notes:\u003c\/strong\u003e Regular monitoring of water quality is essential. Ensure there is sufficient algae growth to support their dietary needs, or be prepared to provide supplemental feeding.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Inverts Bay","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43064291164299,"sku":"4306429116","price":60.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0628\/8578\/9835\/files\/tuxedo-urchin_b276828b-2855-4b12-b16c-95c9bc9e3ba7.jpg?v=1738943721"},{"product_id":"common-black-sea-urchin-copy","title":"Longspine Urchin","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eBlack Longspine Urchin\u003c\/strong\u003e, also known as Long-spined Sea Urchin, has a body which is predominately black with a red eyespot in the center. The spines on these urchins are long, thin and completely black. They are a very delicate looking urchin, which are actually very capable of protecting itself. These urchins are excellent algae controllers for an aquarium housing aggressive fish.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProvide an aquarium with ample hiding places and room to roam. Being a nocturnal creature, the Black Longspine Urchin will hide during the day and only come out at night to forage for food such as algae and seaweed. These urchins are an excellent algae controller for an aggressive aquarium where other invertebrates would be eaten. When approached by a fish, these urchins will sense their presence, and will defend itself by directing its spines towards its offender.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is very sensitive to high levels of copper-based medications and will not tolerate high nitrate levels. If it begins to shed its spines, it is a sign of very poor water quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBe aware, it is venomous, with its sting being roughly equivalent to that of a bee sting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe diet may be supplemented with dried seaweed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eApproximate Purchase Size:\u003c\/strong\u003e Small: 1-1\/2\" to 2\"; Medium: 2\" to 3\" Large: 3\" to 4\"\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Inverts Bay","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44267784339595,"sku":"44267784339595","price":50.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0628\/8578\/9835\/files\/Long_Spine_Urchin.jpg?v=1758225412"}],"url":"https:\/\/ca9ea5-6d.myshopify.com\/collections\/urchins.oembed","provider":"Inverts Bay","version":"1.0","type":"link"}