Sea Urchins

Sea Urchin gonads are usually served raw and can be eaten on their own or used as a topping for sushi or pasta dishes. The flavor is often described as briny and slightly sweet, with a creamy texture.

Appearance

Sea urchins have a round, spiny body that can vary in size from a few centimeters to over 30 centimeters in diameter, depending on the species. They are covered in hard, calcareous plates, which are interlocked to form a protective shell. The spines on the shell are used for protection and can vary in length and color depending on the species.

Habitat

Sea urchins are found in oceans all around the world, from shallow waters to depths of over 5,000 meters. They are commonly found in rocky areas, kelp forests, and coral reefs. Some species are also found in sandy or muddy areas.

Fishing and Seasonality

Sea urchins are usually harvested by divers or by using traps or dredges. Divers will usually hand-pick the sea urchins from the ocean floor, being careful to avoid the sharp spines. Traps and dredges can be used to catch larger quantities of sea urchins, but they can also cause damage to the ocean floor and other marine life. The season for sea urchin harvesting varies depending on the location and species. In general, sea urchins are harvested year-round, but the peak season varies by region. For example, in California, the peak season for harvesting red sea urchins is from November to April.

Culinary

Sea urchin gonads, also known as uni, are a popular delicacy in many cuisines, particularly in Japanese and Mediterranean cuisine. The gonads are usually served raw and can be eaten on their own or used as a topping for sushi or pasta dishes. The flavor is often described as briny and slightly sweet, with a creamy texture.

Conservation

Overfishing and habitat destruction are major threats to sea urchin populations. The use of dredges and traps can also cause damage to the ocean floor and other marine life. In some areas, regulations have been put in place to limit the amount of sea urchins that can be harvested, and some organizations are working to promote sustainable fishing practices.