انجمن های اکینوئید با زیستگاه های مرجانی با تاکسون در دریا عمیق و تأثیر سایر گونه های اکینوئید، عمق و تاریخچه ماهیگیری در توزیع آنها متفاوت است

This study indicates that image data can be a useful tool to detect trends in echinoid habitat associations. It also suggests that refinement of the methods, in particular with studies conducted at a more precise taxon and habitat scale, would facilitate better quantitative analyses of habitat associations and paint a more realistic picture of a population's ecology. Most deep-sea ecological studies to date have been conducted at a relatively coarse taxonomic and habitat resolution, and lack sufficient resolution to provide useful information for the conservation of vulnerable deep-sea habitats.