Need ID on Spikey Thing

[jbro]

Hi, This really cool, urchin-like thing popped out of a hole in my LR about a month after addition. It resembles an urchin, but the "spikes" are dull. It really looks more like an old-time deep sea mine with beige rings on the spikes. I wanted to attach a pic, but the file size is too big. I'll try and post pic another way. I am still trying to figure out the best way to work my camera, so it's not the greatest shot. I used a flash on this one. I hope it didn't startle the little devil.
Thanks for replies!

 

[Anonymous]

Without a picture it's impossible to say with certainty.
Where is your rock from?
What you're describing though sounds like a Heterocentrotus spp., mostly harmless algae feeders though they will bulldoze rockwork and coral frags.

Regards,
David Mohr

 

[jbro]

Thanks for replying David. That's exactly what it is. Pencil Urchin. Heterocentrotus Mammillatus. I have a pic posted on the phtography/special request ID forum.