West Indian Sea Egg (Urchin)

A large bodied urchin with short thick spines. The body color is usually black, but as seen in pictures, can occasionally be a brownish-purple color or white. Populations in some areas have declined because of overharvesting for their roe (eggs). Found in most areas and at depths from 0-30 feet. They feed on algae which cleans rock surfaces. This cleaning process gives corals a solid surface to attach to. It is believed that they cover themselves with leaves, rocks, shells and other debris to protect themselves from the sun. It is quite incredible to see a little urchin carrying around a pound of rocks!  (pic #8). I wonder how they hang on to that much weight....