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Family: Brissidae
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Bocas Species Database Habitat: Sandy areas where seagrass and algae are sparse or absent. Distribution: Caribbean, south to Brazil Natural History Notes: The urchin lives burrowed about 50 mm deep in the sediment. It can rebury itself within 10 minutes when brought to the surface. The spines become erect when disturbed, likely as a defense against predators. Major predators include the helmet conchs Cassis tuberosa and C. madagascariensis spinella Clench. The species feeds both at night and during the day and individuals select nutrient-rich particles for ingestion. The pinnotherid crab Dissodactylus primitivus (Griffith 1987) is associated with the urchin. Depth: 1-210 m, most common less than 50 m. Characteristics: This is a large, elongate oval, irregular urchin, with a fragile, tan test, reaching a length of 220 mm. Its spines are short, except on the upper surface where conspicuous long, needlelike spines are directed posteriorly. |