[2] Its spines contain thorns, allowing for the growth of algae and sponges.

[4] In turn, the algae and sponges that grow provide camouflage for the sea urchin.

[5] The rough-spined sea urchin is primarily an herbivore, with most of its diet consisting of the algae that form on the coral reefs.

[2] The rough-spined sea urchin can be found in the Central Pacific, including Hawaii, New Guinea and French Polynesia, as well as in Mauritius.

[6][7] It prefers coral reefs in water depths deeper than 150 ft (46 m).