How do I get a sea urchin off a rock?

[pens1991]

I purchased a 'decorative' rock a few days ago. Ever since the nitrite level continues to rise. It is a fairly new tank and until the rock was introduced the levels were near perfect. There isn't a decaying fish and we promptly clean food debris out. I can only think that this pretty rock which now is slimey and the other rocks in the tank are not has something foreign on it that didn't come off with the cleaning. My problem is that I have an urchin that refuses to get off! I don't want to hurt him, but I feel as though the rock needs to come out....HELP!!

 

[meisacao]

I'm not sure what's going on with your decorative rock. Is it live, and was it cured if it was?? As far as your urchin, it is very difficult to get them off of something. Do not pull him off, it won't work. Try offereing him an algae pellet. Put it as close to his mouth as possible and wait a while to see if he will move. The only other way is to wait until night and the tank is dark and he will roam the tank.

 

[alyssia]

How long has he been on the rock? My urchin never stays still for long.