Tuxedo Urchin (Mespilia globulus)

The Tuxedo Urchin is a unique and visually appealing sea urchin known for its vibrant blue, black, and sometimes red spines, which form a “tuxedo” pattern around its spherical body. This small, peaceful urchin is an excellent algae grazer, helping to keep the tank clean by consuming various types of algae, including hair algae. The Tuxedo Urchin is reef-safe and will not harm corals or other tank inhabitants, though it may pick up small shells or pebbles to camouflage itself, adding a bit of character to the tank.

Care Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 3 inches in diameter.
• Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum; suitable for nano tanks or larger setups, with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding.
• Diet: Herbivorous; primarily feeds on algae, including hair and film algae. It will benefit from supplemental feedings of dried seaweed or algae wafers if natural algae sources are low.
• Water Temp: 72-78°F.
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025.
• Aggression: Peaceful; the Tuxedo Urchin is non-aggressive and compatible with a variety of tankmates, including fish, corals, and other invertebrates.
• Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate; hardy and easy to care for, making it suitable for aquarists of all levels.
• Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe; does not harm corals or other invertebrates, making it a safe and beneficial choice for algae control in reef tanks.

Special Feature - Camouflage Behavior
The Tuxedo Urchin often collects small shells, rocks, or even pieces of algae to carry on its back as camouflage, adding a unique and entertaining behavior to observe. This helps it blend into its surroundings and offers a natural defense mechanism in the wild.

Compatibility
This urchin is peaceful and safe for all types of reef tanks. It coexists well with a wide range of tankmates, including other peaceful invertebrates and fish, and provides beneficial algae control.

Coloration

• Indo-Pacific Region: The Tuxedo Urchin has a dark, often blue or black body with short, colorful spines, typically in shades of blue, black, or red, giving it a distinctive “tuxedo” appearance. This unique coloration makes it a standout in any marine aquarium​.

Typical Habitat

• Distribution: Native to the Indo-Pacific, the Tuxedo Urchin is commonly found in coral reef environments, where it grazes on algae growing on rocks and corals. It thrives in well-established aquariums with ample algae and stable water conditions.