Heterocentrotus mammillatus
Slate-pencil urchin
Variabler Griffelseeigel
Griffelzee-egel
Oursin crayon
Erizo lapicero 
Riccio matita
Distribution
- The tropical Pacific
- The Red Sea
- The Indian Ocean
Surrounding and environment
- The species is generally found on the reef
- The species is not very mobile
- The species can be found between 0 and 25 Meters.
- Uncommon Species
Environment and movement of the nocturnal species
- The animal hunts at night
General behaviour of the species
- Species generally solitary
- The animal is rather indifferent to the diver, though it remains on its guard
General characteristics of the species
- Maximum size : 20 cm
- The animal is a grazer of algae.
- The animal can show variable colouring
Relationship with humans
- The species can be eaten but is of no particular culinary interest
- The species is exploited in the following sector(s) :
- - Aquarium enthusiasts.
The species can be confused with other species of similar appearance!