Purple Urchin – Arbacia punctulata
Arbacia punctulata – The Purple urchin is a ravenous herbivore bred and raised at Biota North Carolina. These inverts make great additions to your clean up crew as they can eat both tough algae on rockwork and film algae on the glass. They tend to pick up small rocks or sand around the aquarium so make sure your frags are glued down.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Species | Arbacia punctulata |
| Origin | Biota North Carolina |
| Diet | Herbivore – algae (film and rock-bound) |
| Behavior | Active grazers; may move small rocks or sand |
FAQ
Do purple urchins eat all types of algae?
Yes, they primarily consume both film algae on glass and tough algae growing on rockwork.
Are they safe to keep with other marine life?
They are generally safe but may move small rocks or sand; ensure frags are securely glued down to prevent displacement.
How should I care for a purple urchin in my aquarium?
Provide a stable environment with ample algae sources. Ensure rocks and decorations are securely attached to avoid being moved by the urchin.
Victoria Edmunds –
The purple urchin has been a great addition to my tank. It eats algae efficiently, especially on the glass and rock surfaces. I made sure to glue down all my frags after introducing it. It’s active and doesn’t seem to cause any issues with other inhabitants.
Jessica MacLeod –
Works well for algae control. I noticed it picks up small sand particles near the substrate, so I’ve been reinforcing the placement of my rocks. Overall, a reliable and low-maintenance cleaner.
Charles Paterson –
After adding the purple urchin, my glass surfaces are much cleaner. It’s not aggressive and only grazes on algae. I appreciate the natural approach to tank maintenance.