Strongylocentrotus

Strongylocentrotus is a genus of sea urchins, commonly known as the purple sea urchin and the red sea urchin. They belong to the family Strongylocentrotidae and are found in the Pacific Ocean, particularly along the coasts of North America and Japan.

Description

Strongylocentrotus sea urchins are characterized by their robust, spherical bodies covered with spines. The two most common species, Strongylocentrotus purpuratus (purple sea urchin) and Strongylocentrotus franciscanus (red sea urchin), are named for their distinctive coloration.

Habitat and Distribution

These sea urchins inhabit rocky substrates in the intertidal and subtidal zones. They are found in the Pacific Ocean, from Alaska to Baja California in North America, and from Kamchatka to Korea in Asia.

Diet

Strongylocentrotus sea urchins are primarily herbivores, feeding on algae and kelp. They play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the kelp forest ecosystem.

Reproduction

Like other sea urchins, Strongylocentrotus species reproduce through external fertilization. The females release eggs into the water, which are then fertilized by sperm released by the males.

Economic Importance

Strongylocentrotus sea urchins are commercially harvested for their roe, which is a delicacy in many cultures, particularly in Japan where it is known as uni.

Research Importance

The purple sea urchin, Strongylocentrotus purpuratus, is an important model organism in developmental biology and genomics research. Its genome was fully sequenced in 2006, providing valuable insights into echinoderm and deuterostome evolution.

Strongylocentrotus purpuratus, the purple sea urchin

See Also

• Echinoderm
• Sea Urchin

References

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