Hitch hiker ID please

[Curtis1551]

About two months ago I bought some great live rock. It came with many hitch hikers. I that did not show himself until two weeks ago and I am just now finding the time to ask what it is. So please what do you think of the creature in the pictures below.

 

[kkyyllee]

urchin, not sure which kind tho

 

[coast2coast7390]

looks like one of the many types of rock urchins

 

[Curtis1551]

This urchin seems to like to hang out at the top of the tank...my concern is, when changing the water, is it ok for the urchin to stay at the top, out of the water, for 30 minutes or should I force him lower in the tank when changing the water? I have tried forcing him off and it did seem to injure him so I hate to do it if I don't have to. Is there any chance that he could be dangerous to his tankmates? Thanks!

 

[UntamedBreez]

I wouldnt say being out of the water is good for him,...but if you hurt him forcing him down that doesnt help. urchins are very moble he can move if he wants to.
he is safe for your tank eats algea like crazy....you might want to suppliment his diet with a few peices of nori if your tank doesnt have a whole lot of it yet
very cool hitch hiker...most people have to buy them