Hawaiian Black Beach Critters & a Smokin Snail

[AuntKaren]

We just got back from a wonderful vacation to Hawaii. It was awesome to say the least. When we were on the Big Island at the Black Beach there were these creatures on the rocks and in the tide pools. Can anyone tell me what these critters are? They were about an inch in diameter.


While I'm here, has anyone seen their snail "smokin"? This guy smoked for at least 10 minutes! I took a video of it but I'm not sure how to load a video here. This is but one of the great pictures we got of ole Smokey Joe.

[jojo22]

No idea on the black things, but I have seen a snail smoke and if I recall correctly it is a breeding thing.

[roadcrew]

ive seen the the "smoke" floating in my tank but i guess my snail hides in the closet. he's not the exibitionist yours is. and im just as curious on the urchin?

[graphixx]

yes that is breeding. good pics by the way

[parkervincent]

it looks like the black things could be some sort of star fish maybe crown of thorns starfish.

[AuntKaren]

I found out that the black critter is called a Helmet Urchin. Colobocentrotus atratus

LOL Roadcrew I'd say he's definately not in the closet. I posted the pic on another site and it was suggested the snail needed a valve replacement. I told him I can't find it's hood release.

Thanks for the input y'all!

[hardcz]

That's not smoke... I'll explain it to you when you're older.

[Paulo]

That's not smoke... I'll explain it to you when you're older.

He will tell you all about the bird wrasses and bumble bees snails

[fishtal]

I've been to that beach, it's awesome!

Your snail was spawning. :D I've caught it happening a few times in the past.

[Werdlone]

I think they have a smoke after that part.......