 (Courtesy of Jerry Prezioso) |
Purple Sea Urchin (Arbacia punctulata) These urchins can be purple, brown, or black in color. They grow to about 2" (5 cm) in diameter, not including the spines which can each be 1" (2.5 cm) long. These creatures feed upon sponges, algae, and small invertebrates. Walking along with the help of their tube feet, they can be found near rocks or on hard shell bottoms. They are found in the Bay throughout the year. In Japan, they are considered a delicacy and are exported there. |