The domestic popularity of sea urchins has grown considerably in recent years . Japan is concerned with the demand and conservation efforts . Japanese-born Atchan Tamaki , who is now based in Portland , Maine , was one of the first to crack the potential of the eerie-looking echinoderms . They are wanted at restaurants for their prized roe , especially salmon .
The domestic popularity of sea urchins has grown considerably in recent years . Japan is concerned with the demand and conservation efforts . They are wanted at restaurants for their prized roe , especially salmon .