Species Profiles: Life Histories and Environmental Requirements of Coastal Fishes and Invertebrates (South Florida) - Long-Spined Black Sea Urchin

摘要

Species profiles are literature summaries of the taxonomy, morphology, range, life history and environmental requirements of coastal aquatic species. They are designed to assist in environmental impact assessment. The long-spined black sea urchin, Diadema antillarum, is one of the most common marine invertebrates in the South Florida and Caribbean regions. Diadema is gregarious and is found in large groups on hard bottom in shallow waters. Spawning is year-round, concentrated in late winter to early summer, and the larvae spend an unknown period in the plankton. Following settlement, growth is rapid, to a maximum size of about 10 cm in 3 to 4 years. The elimination of Diadema has affected algal biomass, reef productivity, and fish populations.