Echinidae
Echinidae is a family of sea urchins, belonging to the order Camarodonta. These echinoderms, characterized by their spiny, globular bodies, exhibit a wide range of colors and sizes. They are commonly known as “heart urchins” due to their heart-shaped appearance. Echinidae are found in various marine environments, from shallow intertidal zones to the deep sea.
Common Names
Members of the Echinidae family are often referred to as "heart urchins." This name derives from their distinctive heart-shaped bodies. Other common names include "sea potatoes" and "sand dollars," although these terms may refer to other closely related species.
Characteristics
Echinidae sea urchins are characterized by the following features:
- Heart-shaped body: This is the defining feature of the family, distinguishing them from other sea urchin groups.
- Spines: Like other sea urchins, Echinidae possess numerous spines that cover their bodies. These spines can be long, short, or even absent in some species.
- Test: The hard, protective shell or "test" is typically flattened and heart-shaped, with a distinct anterior and posterior end.
- Tube feet: These tiny, sucker-like appendages are used for locomotion and feeding.
- Aristotle's lantern: This complex feeding apparatus is composed of five teeth, allowing the sea urchins to scrape algae and other food from surfaces.
Environments
Echinidae sea urchins are found in a variety of marine habitats, including:
- Shallow intertidal zones: Some species thrive in these areas, exposed to air and waves during low tide.
- Subtidal zones: Many Echinidae live in these areas, below the low tide mark, where they graze on algae and other food sources.
- Deep sea: Certain species of Echinidae have adapted to survive in the depths of the ocean, where food is scarce and conditions are challenging.
References
For further information, please refer to the following websites: