Temnopleuridae

The Temnopleuridae are a family of sea urchins in the order Temnopleuroida. They are commonly known as slate pencil urchins due to the shape of their tests (shells). These urchins are found in a wide variety of marine environments, from shallow coastal waters to the deep sea.

Pseudechinus novaezealandiae

Bald-patch Urchin – Microcyphus rousseaui

Pink Temnopleurid Sea Urchin, Short-spined Urchin – Amblypneustes elevatus

Amblypneustes formosus

Characteristics

Temnopleuridae are characterized by their relatively small, flattened tests, which are typically covered in short, stout spines. The test is usually pentagonal in shape, with five ambulacra (rows of tube feet) and five interambulacra (regions between the ambulacra). The spines of Temnopleuridae are often brightly colored, ranging from red, orange, and yellow to green, brown, and black.

Environments

Temnopleuridae are found in a variety of marine environments, including:

  • Shallow coastal waters
  • Coral reefs
  • Seagrass beds
  • Rocky shores
  • Deep sea

Common Names

Temnopleuridae are commonly known as:

  • Slate pencil urchins
  • Sand dollars (some species)

References

For more information on Temnopleuridae, please refer to the following sources: