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Flower Sea Urchin (Toxopneustes_pileolus)
Seen in the area of Sihanoukville, Cambodia (May, 2011).
Its common name is derived from its numerous and distinctively flower-like pedicellariae, which are usually pinkish-white to yellowish-white in color with a central purple dot. These are used to keep the body surface clear of algae, encrusting organisms, and unwanted debris. It possesses short and blunt spines, though these are commonly hidden beneath the pedicellariae. It is considered highly dangerous, as it is capable of delivering extremely painful and medically significant stings when touched.
''Toxopneustes pileolus'', commonly known as the flower urchin, is a widespread and commonly encountered species of sea urchin from the Indo-West Pacific. It is considered highly dangerous, as it is capable of delivering extremely painful and medically significant stings when touched. It inhabits coral reefs, seagrass beds, and rocky or sandy environments at depths of up to 90 m . It feeds on algae, bryozoans, and organic detritus.
Its common name is derived from its numerous and.. more
