Sand dollars (also known as sea cookies or snapper biscuits in New Zealand and Brazil, or pansy shells in South Africa) are species of flat, burrowing sea urchins belonging to the order Clypeasteroida. Some species within the order, not quite as flat, are known as sea biscuits. Sand dollars can also be called "sand cakes" or "cake urchins". [2]

May 7, 2024 · Sand dollars are flat and burrowing invertebrates included in the class of marine animals known as echinoids, or spiny-skinned creatures. They are commonly called "irregular"...

There are eleven different species of sand dollars and they are found in waters including in the Pacific, Caribbean, and Atlantic oceans. Sand dollars are related to sea stars and sea urchins. These creatures are bottom-dwellers that feed on microscopic algae …

Oct 9, 2019 · Common sand dollars have been found throughout the North Pacific and eastern North Atlantic oceans, at locations from just below the intertidal zone to more than 7,000 feet. As their name suggests, sand dollars prefer to live in the sand, in densities ranging between .5 and 215 per 10.7 square foot.

Feb 17, 2025 · Sand dollars are disk-shaped echinoderms that belong to the order Clypeasteroida under the class Echinoidea, which consists of sea urchins. Their rigid exoskeleton, known as a test, often features a distinctive petal-like design marked by numerous tiny pores.

Apr 12, 2025 · sand dollar, any of the invertebrate marine animals of the order Clypeastroida (class Echinoidea, phylum Echinodermata) that has a flat, disk-shaped body. They are close relatives of sea urchins and heart urchins. The sand dollar is particularly well adapted for burrowing in sandy substrates.

Jan 1, 2021 · The sand dollar is a group of sea urchins belonging to the order Clypeasteroida and consisting of more than twenty families. Also known around the world as sea cookies, snapper biscuits, pansy shells, and sand cakes, sand dollars are well-known for their hard, flat tests that are often found by beachcombers.

The Sand Dollar is a type of unique burring sea urchin. The various species have a unique, flattened body shape and lack the typical elongated spines of other sea urchins. Researchers place these animals in the taxonomic order Clypeasteroida. Read on to …

Jan 10, 2023 · Sand dollar tests are sources of calcium carbonate and it is best to leave it on the beach after you're done building.

Mar 10, 2025 · Sand dollars are fascinating creatures found on sandy beaches. Their flat, round shape and unique characteristics make them popular among beachgoers. But beyond their beauty, sand dollars are important members of marine ecosystems. Sand Dollar Alive keeps the ocean environment balanced and healthy.