urchinitus...BAD NEWS!!!!!!!!!!

[porgyhunter]

I don't know in if sea uchins cluster around lobster holes in other areas, but i suppose they do. Years ago I never really cared about them when making a stab for a bug. Then welts showed up, and grew, and grew. pretty soon it looked like my hands were covered with worts. Found out the spines have barbs. Body can't push them out. If I see a uchin next to a bug I know it isn't worth YEARS of discomfort.

 

[xjeslesx]

You can move the urchins out of the way and still get the bug. They are attached by a slight suction but can easily be pulled off and moved.
I agree that getting stuck my an urchin is no fun, luckily I haven't gotten any broken spines in me.

 

[Mr.X]

The sea urchins themselves might be worth harvesting for "uni" sushi. Very expensive and served in only the best restaurants.

Additionally, having had bards inside my hand I would second the opinion of "not worth it." The risk of infection is high and knowing that I had a couple of pre-med students remove the barbs out of my hand on board a moving ship. The kids got to see a real-life medical theater with no local anesthesia + I can't drink alcohol.

X

 

[porgyhunter]

Smart to remove them, I don't know about cold...ouch!