𝘋𝘪𝘢𝘥𝘦𝘮𝘢 𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘢𝘳𝘶𝘮 or the long-spined sea urchin, is a keystone herbivore. They are known for their incredible spines, which offer protection. Like many other sea urchins, they have tiny tube feet all over their body that helps the urchin navigate in the habitat and detect changes in water currents. It's like having a built-in radar system! The long-spined sea urchin eats more algae than other urchins, playing a crucial role in maintaining the health and diversity of coral reefs. By keeping algal growth under control, it helps provide a balanced ecosystem for countless marine creatures. However, in the 1980s and in 2022 there was a huge die-off of the long-spined sea urchin, disturbing the delicate balance of coral reef ecosystems. We are helping to restore these crucial herbivores to improve the balance of coral reefs!