Tuxedo Urchin (Mespilia globulus) Care Guide
A small, attractive sea urchin with alternating bands of blue and black (like a tuxedo). One of the best reef-safe algae eaters that grazes on film algae without damaging coralline algae.
Overview
Mespilia globulus is a species in the family Temnopleuridae. A small, attractive sea urchin with alternating bands of blue and black (like a tuxedo). One of the best reef-safe algae eaters that grazes on film algae without damaging coralline algae. Carries debris on its spines for camouflage. Small enough for most reef tanks.
Taxonomy
- Family: Temnopleuridae
- Genus: Mespilia
- Scientific name: Mespilia globulus
- Other names: Globe Urchin, Blue Tuxedo Urchin
- Origin: Indo-Pacific
Habitat
Mespilia globulus is a small sea urchin of Indo-Pacific reefs with alternating banded and spined zones. An efficient algae grazer that helps control nuisance algae, it often carries debris for camouflage; reef-safe but can dislodge unattached corals as it moves.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 80 L
- Temperature: 24-27 °C
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- Salinity: SG 1.024-1.026
- KH: 8-12 dKH
- Water flow: moderate
- Adult size: 3-5 cm
- Lifespan: 3-5 years
- Difficulty: beginner
Diet
Classified as herbivore. Recommended feeding frequency: grazer. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.
Compatibility
- Temperament: peaceful
- Position in tank: bottom
- Compatible tank mates: Most Reef Fish, Corals
- Avoid with: Triggerfish, Pufferfish
Reef compatibility
Generally classified as reef-safe: does not feed on stony or soft corals, tridacnid clams or ornamental shrimps under normal conditions.