Pronunciation: [spˈataŋɡəs] (IPA) 
Spatangus is spelled with six letters and is pronounced /ˈspeɪtəŋɡəs/ according to the International Phonetic Alphabet. The first syllable is stressed and consists of the phonemes /speɪ/ which represent the sounds of "s", "p", "eɪ" as in "say". The second syllable consists of the phonemes /təŋ/ which represent the sounds of "t", schwa, "ŋ" as in "tongue". The final syllable /ɡəs/ consists of the sounds of "ɡ" and "əs" as in "buzz".
Spatangus is a genus of marine echinoderms belonging to the family Spatangidae in the order Spatangoida. These organisms are commonly known as heart urchins or irregular heart urchins due to their unique heart-shaped or oval bodies. They are primarily found in sandy or muddy marine environments, often burrowing into the substrate for protection and feeding.
The body of a Spatangus is covered in a series of fused plates, forming a rigid test that encloses and protects the internal organs. They possess five pairs of pores known as ambulacra, through which the tube feet extend for locomotion and collecting food particles. The mouth, located on a more elongated end, is surrounded by a series of structures called petaloids which aid in feeding and respiration.
These organisms are typically herbivorous, feeding on algae and detritus, although some species may also consume small invertebrates. They play an important ecological role in their habitats, helping with the turnover of sediments and enabling nutrient cycling.
Spatangus species are known for their ability to reproduce sexually, with separate male and female individuals. Fertilization occurs externally, and the larvae undergo a planktonic phase before settling on the sea floor and undergoing metamorphosis into adult forms.
Due to their intriguing morphology and ecological significance, Spatangus species are of great interest to marine biologists and ecologists studying marine ecosystems and the biodiversity within them.
A genus of existing sea-urchins.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Spatangus" is derived from Latin and Greek origins.
The Latin word "spatangus" is derived from the Greek word "spátanton", which means "flat". This is a combination of "spatáō", meaning "I draw or tear open", and "ágō", meaning "I lead or carry".
In terms of its usage in biology, "Spatangus" is the genus name of a type of sea urchin that has a flattened body shape. It is named so because of its similarity to the original meaning of "flat" or "spread out".
