Habitat: Calm water, epecially in turtle grass beds, also occurs on rock and sand. This species is intolerant of suspended silt and abandons areas where the water is turbid. Distribution: Caribbean, North Carolina, south Brazil, Panama. Natural History Notes: The species can reach high population densities in its preferred turtle grass habitat, sometimes extensively overgrazing the turtle grass. The spawning period of L. variegatus is shorter at higher latitudes. In Panama, it is sexually ripe throughout the year. Spawning in Panama follows a semilunar rhythm; individuals tend to spawn at the new and full moon. Development from zygote to metamorphosis takes 33-43 days (in lab exp). Recruitment is highly localized. Predators include fish, birds and snails. Depth: 0-250m, but most common less than 50m Characteristics: Short spines, total diameter of about 110mm, diameter of the test reaches about 85mm. The test is hemispherical with smoothly curving sides and carries many small tubercles. Pedicellariae are numerous on living specimens, appearing as stalked, almost spherical, white or pink structures.