Description
Spineless Red & Blue Sea Urchin – Mespilia globulus
Overview:
The Spineless Sea Urchin (also called the Blue Tuxedo Urchin) is a small, reef-friendly echinoderm prized for its brilliant blue and red bands and short, blunt spines. Unlike many urchins, its spines are rounded and non-piercing, making it a much safer choice for community reef tanks.
Origin:
Native to Indo-Pacific reefs, especially around Fiji, Tonga, and Indonesia, where it inhabits coral rubble zones and lagoons.
Feeding:
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Primarily an algae grazer, consuming coralline and film algae.
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Will also scavenge detritus and leftover food.
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Can be supplemented with nori, spirulina, and algae wafers.
Tank Mates:
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Completely reef-safe and compatible with corals, clams, and most peaceful fish.
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Avoid housing with predators that eat echinoderms (e.g., triggers, puffers, large wrasses).
Aggression Level:
Peaceful. Non-aggressive and harmless to other tank mates.
Experience Level:
Beginner-Friendly. Hardy and easy to keep, provided the tank has enough algae growth or supplemental feeding.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)
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pH: 8.1–8.4
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Salinity: 1.023–1.025
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Tank Size: 30+ gallons
Unique Features:
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Brilliant blue and red banding with short, non-stinging spines.
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Will often carry shells, coral rubble, or algae on its back as camouflage.
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Excellent at natural algae control in reef tanks.
✨ The Spineless Red & Blue Sea Urchin is a safe, colorful, and efficient algae grazer, perfect for reef aquariums of all sizes.
