Pseudechinus novaezealandiae, commonly known as the is a species of sea urchin found in the waters surrounding New Zealand. This species belongs to the family Temnopleuridae, which is part of the order Camarodonta within the class Echinoidea, a diverse group of marine invertebrates known for their spiny exoskeletons.
Description & Characteristics
Pseudechinus novaezealandiae is a relatively small sea urchin, typically reaching a maximum size of around 5 cm in diameter. The is characterized by its and its , giving it a distinctive appearance. It is often found in a variety of colors, from shades of brown to purple and green.
Habitat and Occurrence
Pseudechinus novaezealandiae is a common inhabitant of the rocky shores and reefs around New Zealand, particularly in the intertidal and subtidal zones. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including tide pools, kelp forests, and rocky outcrops, making it a adaptable species capable of thriving in different environments. This sea urchin is particularly abundant in the
Taxonomy
Pseudechinus novaezealandiae is classified within the family Temnopleuridae, which is part of the order Camarodonta. These taxonomic classifications reflect the evolutionary relationships and shared characteristics of this species with other sea urchins. The order Camarodonta is a diverse group of sea urchins that includes many species with a variety of adaptations for different lifestyles. The family Temnopleuridae is characterized by its and , which are key features of Pseudechinus novaezealandiae.
Feeding
Pseudechinus novaezealandiae is an herbivorous species, feeding primarily on and It plays a vital role in the marine ecosystem as a grazer, helping to control the growth of these algae and maintain the health of the rocky reef habitats.
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