Clypeaster humilis (Common sea biscuit)
Identification
Irregular rounded and pentagonal shape, the body is spiny and can be black and dull shades of green, olive, brown, purple, and red. They are close relatives of sea urchins, hence the similarities, but more flattened.
Status
Unevaluated by the IUCN Red list.
Habitat
Circumtropical species, known from the Indian Ocean, the Pacific and China Sea. They remain buried under the sand during the day, to hunt at night. They live in a depth range of 0-216 meters.
Reproduction
–
Size
Up to 10cm. in diameter.
Prey / Predation
They feed mostly on algae on the sediment. Sea otters, wolf eels, triggerfish, and other predators feed on them.
Special features
Their eggs are considered a delicacy by humans and can be served in some restaurants.
