Black Sea Urchin
Arbacia lixula
Sighting evidence at Temple of Apollo Underwater, Naxos
Black sea urchins are the primary grazers on the submerged ruins, keeping algal growth in check and creating bare surfaces that other invertebrates colonise. Their grazing activity directly shapes the micro-ecology of the site, determining which species can establish on the ancient stone. High urchin density here is a sign of nutrient-rich, productive water.
Evidence at this site
No confirmed records on file at this site
Black Sea Urchin is listed as a curated species here based on historical reports.