Scientific name: Diadema setosum

Description: This is a category of long-spined sea urchin belonging to the Diadematidae family. It is a typical sea urchin with long, hollow spines that are mildly venomous. D. setosum is distinguished from other Diadema by the presence of five distinctive white dots on its body. 

Habitat: This species is commonly found on coral reefs, but it can also be found on sand flats and seagrass beds.

Distribution: From Australia and Africa to Japan and the Red Sea. This species can be found throughout the Indo-Pacific region. 

Threats to humans: Despite the fact that it can cause painful stings when stepped on, this urchin is only mildly venomous and possesses no serious threat to humans.

Diet: It feeds on algae, which it grazes off of dead corals or rubble areas. It may also use its long spines to trap tiny suspended food particles and transfer them to its mouth via tube feet.

IUCN red list status: Not evaluated