Distribution: Common in shallow areas and estuaries of the Solitary Islands Marine Park. Known from northern New South Wales to eastern Victoria and Tasmania.

Ecological Notes: Frequents sheltered and moderately exposed reef, depth from 0 – 8 m.

Additional Notes: Easily identified by the brown test with pink spines and yellow suckers at the ends of the tube feet. Usually concealed among algal fronds, tests sometimes seen in wrack above high water mark on beaches after storm events. Test diameter about 60 mm, primary spines 6 mm..

References: Graham J. Edgar. Australian Marine Life, 2nd Edition, 2008. Reed New Holland Publishers. p.418.

Atlas of Living Australia website at https://bie.ala.org.au/search?q=holopneustes+purpurascens. Accessed 10/10/2018.