Echinocardium capense is a species of heart urchin belonging to the family Loveniidae. These echinoderms are characterized by their heart-shaped bodies and are commonly found in various marine environments. They are an important part of the benthic ecosystem, contributing to sediment turnover and nutrient cycling.
Description & Characteristics
Echinocardium capense, like other heart urchins, possesses a flattened, heart-shaped test (the hard, protective shell) that is covered in spines. The species typically reaches a maximum size of around 5 cm in diameter. These spines help the urchin move through the sediment, and they also provide some protection from predators. The test is typically a dull, grayish-brown color, although it can vary depending on the environment and sediment color.
Habitat and Occurrence
Echinocardium capense is a common inhabitant of sandy and muddy bottoms, often found in depths ranging from the intertidal zone to about 100 meters. These heart urchins can be found in various marine zones, including the neritic zone (the area extending from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf) and the bathyal zone (the area of the ocean floor extending from the shelf break to a depth of about 2,000 meters).
Taxonomy
Echinocardium capense belongs to the Class Echinoidea, which includes all sea urchins and sand dollars. Within this class, it falls into the Order Spatangoida, a group of irregular sea urchins characterized by their flattened, heart-shaped bodies. It is further classified within the Family Loveniidae, a group of heart urchins known for their elongated, narrow test and the presence of a well-developed anterior groove.
Feeding
Echinocardium capense is a deposit feeder, meaning it consumes organic matter that settles on the seafloor. These heart urchins use their tube feet to gather sediment and then sort through it, extracting food particles such as algae, diatoms, and detritus. Their feeding activities contribute significantly to the sediment turnover and nutrient cycling within their habitat.
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