Sealife guideThe Camarodonta orderThe taxonomy of marine species
Explore the taxonomy of marine echinoderms with a dedicated focus on starfish and sea urchins !
The class Echinoidea, commonly known as sea urchins, are marine animals characterized by a spherical or slightly flattened body, often protected by rigid spines. These animals, usually small in size, move slowly along the seafloor using tube feet and their internal skeleton is made up of fused calcareous plates.

Slate pencil urchin
(Heterocentrotus mamillatus)
(Heterocentrotus mamillatus)

Stony sea urchin
(Paracentrotus lividus)
(Paracentrotus lividus)

Red sea urchin
(Mesocentrotus franciscanus)
(Mesocentrotus franciscanus)

Violet sea urchin
(Sphaerechinus granularis)
(Sphaerechinus granularis)

West Indian sea egg
(Tripneustes ventricosus)
(Tripneustes ventricosus)
Our latestUpdates

Wednesday, February 18th 2026
The Atlantic tarpon
The Atlantic tarpon is a large coastal fish that can grow up to 8 feet long and weigh over 330 pounds, with a silvery body covered in large, reflective scales. Known as the Silver King, it is famous for its spectacular leaps and fierce fight when hooked by sport fishermen.

Friday, January 30th 2026
The dugong
Discover the dugong, a gentle “sea cow” of tropical waters. Learn about its habitat, diet, reproduction, morphology, and the threats facing this unique marine mammal.

Friday, January 23rd 2026
Dolphins: ocean's smartest creatures
Discover dolphins, the ocean's geniuses: explore their intelligence, social behavior, sophisticated communication, species diversity and vital role in marine ecosystems.
Photo of the Day

Requin nourrice
(Ginglymostoma cirratum)
(Ginglymostoma cirratum)
