Deep-Sea Urchin

This urchin (Echinocrepis rostrata) leaves tracks as it moves across the ocean floor.
(Ken Smith/Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute)

This deep-sea urchin (Echinocrepis rostrata) is an important “bulldozer.” It turns over sediment and exposes prey as it moves across the ocean floor, leaving a trail of tracks behind. This photo was taken about 220 kilometers (137 miles) off the California coast and 4,000 meters (13,123 feet) below the surface. More about deep-sea life can be found in the Deep Ocean Exploration section.

Tags: New discoveries Feeding