Rose Pink Urchin – Lytechinus variegatus

About this invertebrate

Rose Pink Urchin – Lytechinus variegatus is a saltwater sea urchin (pincushion urchin) used in reef aquariums primarily as an algae grazer. In the aquarium, it helps consume film algae and other plant-based algae from rock and glass, and it can also scrape at algae types like diatoms and coralline algae. Because aquarium “color morph” names often vary by retailer, this listing’s practical value is best described by the confirmed species group: Lytechinus variegatus general urchin care and grazing behavior.

Features:

• Care Level: Easy to Moderate, with generally peaceful “grazer” behavior
• Works as a reef-cleanup style herbivore, consuming film algae, diatoms, and other plant material
• May move or pick up loose items while foraging (secure rock/frags to prevent shifting)
• Reef safe with caution: it is not described as a coral eater, but it may topple unsecured frags
• Generally adapts well when placed into an established aquarium with stable conditions
• When natural algae is limited, it benefits from supplemental seaweed and algae-based foods

Specifications:

• Scientific name: Lytechinus variegatus
• Care level: Easy to Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful Grazer
• Reef safe: Yes (with caution)
• Diet (herbivore foods): Film algae, macroalgae, diatoms, dried seaweed
• Adult size: About 3 inches across
• Water temperature: 75–80°F
• Salinity (specific gravity): 1.024–1.026
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH
• Copper note: Sensitive to copper; avoid copper-treated water or medications when housing urchins