Thorny Sea Urchin

Goniocidaris tubaria

Sea Life Native IUCN: Not Evaluated

About

Some individuals with thorns that may be very long and with spines terminating in thorny "crowns". Others show little more than an irregular surface with a few small stubs. The spines are usually densely covered with algae and marine growths.

Size

Test diameter up to 4 cm

Habitat

Subtidal areas, on coarse rubble and shellgrit-covered sea floor, to depths greater than 300m

Distribution

Southern Australia From WA to NSW including Tasmania

Gallery

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Local Sightings

1 recorded sighting in and around the area.

References & citations (2)

Miskelly, A. (2010) Goniocidaris tubaria Thorny Sea Urchin in Museums Victoria Collections (accessed 2021-09-22 14:03:33)
The Atlas of Living Australia (accessed 2021-09-22 14:03:33)

Quick Facts

Common name: Thorny Sea Urchin
Scientific name: Goniocidaris tubaria (Lamarck, 1816)
Family: Cidaridae
Category: Sea Life › Other
Origin: Native
Conservation: Not Evaluated

Australian Faunal Directory

Also Known As

Stumpy Pencil Urchin

Information Website

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Disclaimer: A lot of work goes into making sure identifications, descriptions, sizes, habitats and distribution details are as accurate as possible — but this information is ever-changing, so no guarantee is offered that it is correct or currently valid. Treat it as a guide and do a little of your own research for the latest word. Feedback and corrections are always welcome.