Following last year’s observation of Toxopneustes pileolus (The Flower Frchin) group reproduction in Houbihu Marine Resource Protection Demonstration Area, group reproduction, creating a scene resembling a small-scale underwater fireworks show, was observed again on March 9 this year.

A “sea urchin reserve” was originally established in 2003 and this was followed by the establishment of the Houbihu Marine Resource Protection Demonstration Area in 2005. “Hengchun Township Marine Environment Protection Association” assists with related work and sea urchin expert Dr. Zhao Shi-min, a researcher at Taichung National Museum of Natural Science, has been enlisted to track sea urchin numbers and their movement. The results of conservation are continually being displayed before the people of Taiwan and this case has become an example of successful cooperation between government agency and private organization in the field of marine conservation.

Recently, the Flower Urchins exhibited rare reproductive behavior in the demonstration area. This species of sea urchin is the most beautiful large sea urchin found in the waters around Taiwan and can grow to a diameter of 20cm. It is covered with numerous poisonous spikes. The urchins have five genital pores at the top of their bodies, through which they release semen or eggs. Group reproduction takes place to increase the change of eggs being inseminated. This kind of sea urchin is rare in Taiwan’s waters overall, however, they have thrived in the demonstration area mainly because they and they habitat are protected.18 species of sea urchin have so far been recorded in the Houbihu demonstration area, so it can be described as a “sea urchin paradise.” It is still not known what sets off group urchin reproduction so it can’t be predicted. It is only known that they breed March-May. The chance of seeing this  “seabed volcanic eruption “ is indeed rare. 

Translated by：Kevin Lax
Source：Kending National Park Headquarters