Spines: Sea urchins are known for their long, sharp spines. These spines act as a physical barrier, deterring potential predators from attacking. The spines are made of calcium carbonate and can be very sharp and brittle, causing injury to predators attempting to consume the sea urchin.
Pedicellariae: Pedicellariae are small, stalked structures found on the sea urchin's body. They can be used for defense by grasping and pinching predators or entangling them in their sticky secretions.
Poisonous venom: Some sea urchin species have venom glands located at the base of their spines. When a predator comes into contact with these spines, the venom is injected, causing pain, paralysis, or even death to the attacker.
Crypsis: Certain sea urchin species use camouflage as a defense mechanism. They may have dull or cryptic coloration, or they may cover themselves with algae, sand, or debris to blend in with their surroundings and avoid detection by predators.
Regeneration: Sea urchins have an impressive ability to regenerate lost spines and other body parts. If a spine is broken or lost, the sea urchin can regrow it over time, helping to maintain its defense against predators.