Black short spine urchin losing spines

[Betaktical]

Not really new to the hobby (3yrs) but as the title says I have a short spine black urchin. He is the only one that has completely made it from the beginning till now subtract a shrimp and some snails. He just recently lost about half his spines in one day but hasn't lost anymore. He still moves around the tank pretty good and eats regularly. I have been closely watching him for the past two days and he seems to be ok. Anyone know the life span on these guys? I got him when he was fully grown so there is no telling how old he is. Any help or experience is appreciated

 

[mcgyvr]

How is your water quality?

Lifespan of urchins is typically 30 years or more..

 

[cincyjim]

Usually due to high nitrates.

 

[Betaktical]

How is your water quality?

Lifespan of urchins is typically 30 years or more..

I tested earlier this week and everything checked out fine. Alkalinity was low but everything else was fine. Nothing else in the tank is showing any signs of stress

 

[Betaktical]

Usually due to high nitrates.

Nitrates are 2 ppm

 

[cincyjim]

Do you have a pic of the tank you can share?

 

[nereefpat]

I tested earlier this week and everything checked out fine.

That doesn't tell us much. Specific parameters for salinity, temp, alk at least.

 

[Betaktical]

Do you have a pic of the tank you can share?

Lol the glass of the tank is pretty dirty from a green coralline (?) that I can't seem to get off (any suggestions on that?) but I will post one when I get home

 

[Betaktical]

That doesn't tell us much. Specific parameters for salinity, temp, alk at least.

Sal 1.0255
Temp 79
Alk 6.3
Cal 490
Po4 0.1
Mg 1450
No3 0

 

[nereefpat]

Thanks. I don't see anything troubling there either. Seawater alk would be in the 7s, but I don't know if that would cause problems with an urchin.

 

[top shelf]

I've heard they will sometimes drop them due to stress. I've also read stories of them dropping for no apparent reason but they did grow back.

 

[Betaktical]

I've heard they will sometimes drop them due to stress. I've also read stories of them dropping for no apparent reason but they did grow back.

I hope that's it. He eats like a pig and has never lost spines before. I don't want to lose him especially since he has been with me from the start

 

[top shelf]

I hope that's it. He eats like a pig and has never lost spines before. I don't want to lose him especially since he has been with me from the start

As long as it's still eating that is a really good sign. Just keep an eye on him and make sure he continues to eat and it should be ok.

 

[sde1500]

I've seen small piles of spines randomly from my urchin. Never seemed to cause any trouble.