Pale urchin

[amygetsalife]

One an urchin gets pale, are they heading to certain death?

I bought a tiny one from my LFS, knowing it looked too pale. It still was active with spines and tentacles moving a lot and I have plenty for it to eat. I'm hoping it recovers a bit of color and thrives. Pincushion urchin. Sorry such a blue vid.

 

[samcob]

Hi. Please try posting the video again.

 

[amygetsalife]

 

[samcob]

As you say, it's barely visible in the blue light, but it seems to be moving normally. I think it's fine. Make sure it has algae to eat; they're very active doing their job.

 

[amygetsalife]

Sorry for the poor pics

 

[samcob]

Not all sea urchins are dark-colored, they can also be completely white. I also have one that is white and only at the tips you can see a very light purple.

 

[amygetsalife]

Not all sea urchins are dark-colored, they can also be completely white. I also have one that is white and only at the tips you can see a very light purple.

Good to know. Thanks

 

[Stomatopods17]

Urchins rapidly drop spines when they aren't doing well.

A bleached urchin would imply all its spines were dropped and regrown as new ones are typically white. They don't lose color.