Pin cushion urchin smoking?

[Lefty McWaterbox]

So last few days the urchin has been lethargic. Last night it had whisps of a white substance coming out of the top of it. Thought it was spawning or something. Today it’s not moving. I took it out of the tank and a few of the lower arms are in fact moving but doesn’t look happy.
Thoughts?
Don’t know if I should remove it from the tank or give it another 24hrs.
Salinity 1.025
Ph. 8.2
Alk 9
Calcium 440
No. Nitrate, nitrate or ammonia.

 

[Seamore2001]

It was likely spawning. If the arms are moving, it's alive. When it dies, the arms detach easily. I reckon that since the water parameters are in good shape, it's probably OK. Put it on a sheltered rock and keep an eye on it and check it in 24 hours.

 

[Lefty McWaterbox]

It was likely spawning. If the arms are moving, it's alive. When it dies, the arms detach easily. I reckon that since the water parameters are in good shape, it's probably OK. Put it on a sheltered rock and keep an eye on it and check it in 24 hours.

Thanks! I hope so, I like that little guy!

 

[shred5]

Urchins will spawn when they think they are dying. So he maybe dying.

Matter of fact when breeding them they will make them think they are dying so they spawn.

 

[csb123]

He will actually have a smoke after he is done!

I’ve had urchins spawn without anything bad happening. On the other hand I’ve had urchins perish. They usually start losing spines. I think it was from starvation. Slip a piece of nori under it. They will eat it with gusto.