Home > Invertebrates > Sea Urchins > Strongylocentrotus purpuratus

Updated 12/5/2012

Family Strongylocentrotidae

NORTHEAST PACIFIC

Strongylocentrotus purpuratus

Rock Quarry, Catalina, CA, 5 feet

 

Anacapa, CA, 25 feet

Anacapa, CA, 25 feet

PURPLE URCHIN

Common on rocky reefs in shallow water.  Population surges are responsible for the decimation of Giant Kelp forests in Southern California.  Attains 3.5 inches.  Alaska to Outer Baja California.