Note
Temperature limits for fertilization and early development were examined in the tropical sea urchin Echinometra lucunter to test the hypothesis that the temperature range for normal development limits the geographical distribution of marine species (Andronikov, V.B., 1975. Heat resistance of gametes of marine invertebrates in relation to temperature conditions under which the species exist. Mar. Biol. 30, 1–12). Eggs could be fertilized from 12 to 37°C, with high fertilization at temperatures above 15°C. Development to echinoplutei occurred at 16, 18 and 23°C, but appeared to be optimal at temperatures from 27–34°C.