Sea urchins are excellent algae eaters, but not all are reef-safe. Some bulldoze corals, others have venomous spines.
In this section, I cover common aquarium species (tuxedo, pincushion, long-spine urchins), their care, feeding, and compatibility. Stable water parameters and enough algae are key – a starving urchin will start eating coralline algae or even rock. I also explain which species are safe for coral tanks and which are not.
Tuxedo urchin (Mespilia globulus) is a renowned beautiful and reef safe species of sea urchins. This species is a far better alternative to the long spine and pencil urchins because of its peaceful disposition. Tuxedo urchin is low maintenance and forms a part of your