Diadema antillarum
When it is time to reproduce, these sea urchins assemble into herds. For reproduction to occur, the sperm and eggs must be released at the same time. In order for this to occur, one of the sea urchins release chemicals, causing all nearby sea urchins to release their sperm and eggs at the same time upon smelling the chemicals.
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The Diadema antillarum, also known as the Long-spined sea urchin, is characterized by its exceptionally long black spines, which are covered in venom. It is the most abundant, as well as important, herbivore on the western Atlantic and Caribbean basin, because it prevents the overgrowth of algae.
Long-Spined Sea Urchin with Neon Spines
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