The red sea urchin (Mesocentrotus franciscanus) [1] is a sea urchin found in the northeastern Pacific Ocean from Alaska to Baja California. It lives in shallow waters from the low-tide line to greater than 280 m (920 ft) deep, [2] and is typically found on rocky shores sheltered from extreme wave action in areas where kelp is available. [3] [4]

Jan 11, 2025 · Most sea urchins measure 3 to 10 cm (1 to 4 in) across their test, though the largest species, the red sea urchin (Mesocentrotus franciscanus), grows up to 18 cm (7 in) in test diameter, with a spine length of 8 cm (3 in).

Apr 16, 2024 · The Red Sea Urchin is a sea urchin species found on the Pacific Coast of North America. It can reach up to 7 inches in diameter and feeds on kelp and various algae. Moreover, its body is covered with long, sharp spines colored in shades of red or burgundy, which protect it against predators.

Aug 22, 2015 · Urchins are part of the phylum Echinoderm and their name comes from Ancient Greek (echinos meaning "hedgehog" and derma meaning "skin"). There are more than 900 species of sea urchins and they come in a range of colors …

The red sea urchin’s body is domed above and flat below. Its skeleton, called a test, is made up of 10 fused, chalky plates covered with spines. Every other section has holes through which the urchin’s tube feet are extended among the spines.

In September 2018, a team operating an OceanGate submersible commissioned by SeaDoc Society observed a red urchin and drift kelp at 284 m depth near the San Juan Islands, which more than doubles the known depth range for this species.

Sea urchins are abundant in many areas off seacoasts throughout the world. While these highly armored creatures may seem to bear only slight resemblance to sea stars and sea cucumbers, the presence of tube feet, radial symmetry, and the five fold, star-like arrangement of body parts clearly show the relationship that exists between these animals.

Sea urchins are relatively small animals that typically range from 3 to 10 cm (1 to 4 in) in diameter, although the largest species of sea urchin, the red sea urchin, can reach a diameter of more than 18 cm (7.1 in)! Sea urchins have a spherical body, with five-fold symmetry, that is completely covered by sharp spines.

Sep 25, 2023 · While the Slate pencil urchin primarily consumes coralline algae, the red sea urchin is known for its inclination toward seaweeds and algae (usually brown). While the pencil urchin can be bright red, brown, or purple, the red sea urchin displays color variations ranging from red to dark burgundy.

Apr 12, 2024 · Red Sea Urchins are easily recognized by their spiny, globular bodies which can span up to 7 inches in diameter. These spines serve as both a defense mechanism against predators and a tool for locomotion.