Home > Invertebrates > Sea Urchins > Colobocentrotus atratus

Updated 9/10/2025

Family Echinometridae

INDO-WEST PACIFIC / HAWAII

Colobocentrotus atratus

Makapu'u, Oahu, 1 foot

 

Puako, Hawaii

 

Lana'i Lookout, Oahu

 

Sharks Cove, Oahu

 

Makapu'u, Oahu

 
   

SHINGLE or HELMET URCHIN    HA'UKE'UKE

Abundant on surf-swept cliffs, but rarely encountered outside Hawaii.  Unique shape resists the force of large waves.  Gonads are a Hawaiian delicacy.  Attains 3 inches.  East Africa to Hawaii and the Tuamotus.