Ecosystem Roles
Diadema antillarum feeds on the algal turf of the coral reefs. The algal turf grows rapidly, and without the urchin's control, can destroy the reefs. Diadema antillarum clears the reefs, making room for coral larvae to settle and grow. However, the urchin actually wears away at the calcium carbonate of the reef, too.
Commensal/Parasitic Species:
- Tuleariocaris neglecta, black urchin shrimp
- Many species of cardinal fishes Apogonidae
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Diadema antillarum
Source information
©1995-2012, The Regents of the University of Michigan and its licensors
© The Regents of the University of Michigan and its licensors
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Supplier:
Animal Diversity Web
Editor: Stephanie Fabritius, Southwestern University
Author: Erin Puckett, Southwestern University
Editor: Renee Sherman Mulcrone,
Puckett, E. 2002. "Diadema antillarum" (On-line), Animal Diversity Web. Accessed April 04, 2012 at http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Diadema_antillarum.html
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