Purple sea urchins

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KUMC Sperm Study


Sea urchins supply the sperm for the experiments. This species (Strongelocentrotus purpuratus), is ideal for the studies because much is known about the mechanisms of its sperm movement and fertilization. Also, the sperm is viable for up to 72 hours -- which is important in case the launch is delayed.

The sperm is collected during the spawning season. On the left, a spawning female sea urchin has deposited eggs, which are called oocytes.