{"product_id":"shingle-urchin-colobocentrotus-atratus","title":"Shingle Sea Urchin - Colobocentrotus atratus","description":"\u003cp\u003eShingle Sea Urchin AKA Helmet Sea Urchin– Colobocentrotus atratus\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eUnique features\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis compact, sturdy sea urchin grazes on algal film and fine growth on hard surfaces.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA natural grazer for rockwork and stone surfaces with a healthy supply of biofilm.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAdds movement and natural grazing behaviour to a stable marine aquarium.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNeeds good water quality, ample grazing surfaces, and a well-established aquarium.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIts flattened, helmet-like shape is adapted to exposed coastal areas with strong water movement, while aquarium conditions should remain stable.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDescription\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAlso known as the helmet urchin, Colobocentrotus atratus is a distinctive algae-grazing species suited to established marine aquariums. Its flattened body and short, robust spines help it hold firmly to hard surfaces. As it moves through the aquarium, it feeds on algal film, biofilm, diatoms, and other fine growth.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eProvide a well-cycled aquarium with live rock, suitable grazing surfaces, and peaceful marine aquarium fish. Sea urchins can be sensitive to sudden changes in salinity, temperature, and water quality, so maintain stable conditions and acclimate gradually. Reliable marine aquarium equipment can help support consistent aquarium conditions.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCare \u0026amp; Behaviour\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis peaceful grazer slowly explores rockwork, glass, and other hard surfaces. Although adapted to wave-swept coastal habitats, it needs stable aquarium conditions and a reliable food supply in captivity. It can help graze on film and early growth, but is not a remedy for severe algae problems. Secure loose shells, coral frags, and decorations, as the urchin may shift objects as it moves.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDiet\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eColobocentrotus atratus primarily grazes on naturally occurring algae film, biofilm, diatoms, and fine growth. If the aquarium offers limited natural food, supplement its diet with seaweed or suitable herbivore food. Browse fish and coral foods for options, and monitor its grazing activity and body condition.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSpecifications\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eScientific name: Colobocentrotus atratus\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCategory: Invertebrates \/ sea urchins\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCare level: Moderate\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTemperament: Quiet and peaceful\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDiet: Algal film, biofilm, diatoms, and supplemental seaweed\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMaximum size: Approximately 7–9 cm\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eReef safe: Generally, but secure loose frags and decorations\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDetails: A flattened, sturdy algae grazer that needs stable water conditions and ample grazing surfaces.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCompatible tankmates\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSuitable companions include peaceful reef fish, snails, and non-aggressive shrimp. Avoid triggerfish, large wrasses, aggressive crabs, and other animals that may injure or overturn the urchin. Secure corals, rockwork, and small decorations to reduce the chance of them being displaced during grazing.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Quality Marine","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":62874383548786,"sku":null,"price":100.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0913\/3418\/1234\/files\/873140861_4674758072778763_3684010669389157782_n.jpg?v=1794627426","url":"https:\/\/cbaquatics.ca\/fr\/products\/shingle-urchin-colobocentrotus-atratus","provider":"Concrete Blonde Aquatics","version":"1.0","type":"link"}