Description
Maretia planulata, commonly called the Sea Mouse Urchin or Longspine Heart Urchin, is a species of heart urchin that is known for its algae-eating habits and its role in maintaining a healthy aquarium environment. These urchins are found in sandy, intertidal areas and seagrass beds, typically to depths of 60 meters. They are sediment feeders, meaning they burrow through the substrate and process edible bits of food found within it.
Key characteristics and description:
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Appearance: The Sea Mouse Urchin has a distinctive oval shape with a more elongated body than some other urchin species. It has sparse, long spines that are banded brown/orange and white, interspersed with many shorter, moveable white spines.
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Size: They grow to about 6 cm in length.
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Behavior: They are mainly nocturnal, often only emerging at night.
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Diet: They are omnivores and can be supplemented with green feed when algae are not plentiful.
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Habitat: They prefer sandy environments and can be found in intertidal zones and seagrass beds.
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Reef-safe: They are considered reef-safe and can coexist with other marine life in an aquarium.
