Peeking from between the submerged basaltic alcove, the steely spines ward off predators.  The pale, rock-boring sea urchin appears to be resting, as an unwavering mother rests surrounded by mounds of clean, unfolded laundry.  Small in stature, the rock-boring sea urchin continually grinds away at the rock with its unseen teeth.  Even with non-stop, methodical chewing, it takes between 15 and 20 years to form one hole.  As it slowly bores, it eats microscopic algae and seaweed.  Alas, beware of the surprising blows of strong streams of water from the trigger fish, you are a part of the circle of life!