Urchins

[LCP136]

I know urchins are very thorough in their cleaning capabilities, but how thorough? Could I have one or two small urchins in a 90 gallon reef? Does anyone know a good species?

[zhenya]

I know urchins are very thorough in their cleaning capabilities, but how thorough? Could I have one or two small urchins in a 90 gallon reef? Does anyone know a good species?

I would vote for one Mespilia globulus, otherwise known as blue tuxedo urchin. They don't grow larger than about 2 inches and I think you should have enough food for one(if you are asking). They eat a lot of food! So account for that and you should be fine. ;)

PS> BTW, they are not cleaners.., they are extreme grazers. Some are specifically algal grazers and some will graze everything...
I hope you read this article

[Ninong]

Yes and yes.

Yes, I agree with zhenya's recommendation as to the best species for a tank like yours, and yes, I strongly agree with his recommendation that you read the article by Dr. Ron Shimek that he linked.

Read the article first, before you make up your mind. And remember that urchins eat coralline algae, leaving a bare white spot. That may or may not bother you. The coralline algae will eventually grow back. So if you get an urchin, get only one. And, if you happen to have an acrylic tank, make sure to keep the walls cleaned of coralline algae at all times.

P.S. -- I forgot to say that I agree with zhenya that urchins are not cleaners, they are extreme grazers. Very extreme.