The Warty Sand Urchin, scientifically known as Nudechinus verruculatus, is a fascinating marine invertebrate belonging to the class Echinoidea. It is characterized by its unique appearance and its role in the intricate web of marine ecosystems.
Description & Characteristics
The Nudechinus verruculatus is a relatively small urchin, reaching a maximum size of approximately 6 cm in diameter. Its most striking feature is its warty surface, covered in numerous small, rounded bumps or tubercles. These tubercles are often covered in short, fine spines, giving the urchin a rough texture. The color of Nudechinus verruculatus varies depending on its habitat and individual variations, but it is typically a mottled brown or gray.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Warty Sand Urchin is a common inhabitant of shallow, sandy bottoms in various marine zones. It is particularly abundant in the intertidal and subtidal regions, where it can be found among seagrass beds, coral reefs, and rocky shores. Nudechinus verruculatus is also known to inhabit areas with soft sediment, including mudflats and sandbanks. Its widespread distribution makes it a significant component of diverse marine ecosystems.
Taxonomy
The Nudechinus verruculatus belongs to the family Toxopneustidae, which includes several other species of urchins. The family is placed within the Order Camarodonta, a group of urchins characterized by their strong, pointed teeth. This order is further classified under the Class Echinoidea, which encompasses all sea urchins.
Feeding
Food info: No reliable information available
Image References