ABSTRACT
Pedicellariae are key characters in echinoid identification. Although the numbers and types possessed by each species is well known there are few accounts of the distribution of these organs over the echinoid test. This project investigates the distribution of pedicellariae in E. esculentus in an attempt to assist our understanding of their role in the life of the animal. Their distribution was determined using a quadrat at three vertical levels on the test. Results showed a complex pattern with pedicellariae varying both in size and numbers up and down as well as round the urchin. It is suggested that environmental factors may influence the development of pedicellariae in various ways. The differences in distribution are related to our knowledge of pedicellarial function.
