Tuxedo Urchin

Mespilia globulus

Identification	Distinctive blue-green body with orange-red banding between rows of short, dense spines. Small and compact compared to most aquarium urchins.
Maximum Length	2.5 inches
Origin	Indo-Pacific
Minimum Tank Size	30 gallons
Reef Compatibility	Generally reef safe

Behavior

Active algae grazers that roam rockwork and substrate. Named for the resemblance of their banding pattern to formal tuxedo attire. Less destructive than larger urchin species. Generally safe with corals when well-fed and algae is available.

Diet & Feeding

Herbivore. Grazes on turf algae, coralline algae, and diatoms on rockwork and substrate. Supplement with dried seaweed (nori) attached to a clip if natural algae is limited.

Cautions

Will dislodge loose coral frags as it moves across rockwork — secure frags before adding. Sensitive to copper-based medications. Will consume coralline algae if other food is scarce.