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Datasheet
| Care Description | Zoanthids and Palythoa are a large group of corals in the reef keeping hobby. They come in an incredible range of colors and patterns making them very popular with both beginner hobbyists and rare coral collectors tracking down the uncommon color morphs. In terms of care, both Zoanthids and Palythoa are fairly easy to keep. They tolerate a wide range of lighting intensities and water conditions. Once settled in, zoas multiply quickly. Please see below for more care tips for Zoas and Palys. |
| Water Flow | Moderate - Strong |
| Temperature | 22.2°C / 71.96°F - 25.6°C / 78.08°F |
| Specific Gravity | 1.023-1.026 |
| Carbonate Hardness | 8-12 |
| pH | 8.1-8.4 |
General Description
Zoanthids and Palythoa are a diverse group of corals in the reef keeping hobby, known for their wide range of vibrant colors and patterns. These corals are highly sought after by both novice aquarium enthusiasts and experienced collectors due to their captivating appearances and ease of care.
Demands and Hardiness
Zoanthids and Palythoa are relatively low-maintenance corals, capable of thriving in a variety of lighting intensities and water conditions. They are resilient and can quickly multiply once they have established themselves in a suitable environment. These corals do well in moderate to strong water flow, benefiting from consistent movement to prevent detritus buildup.
Lighting
Zoanthids and Palythoa exhibit a high level of adaptability to different lighting conditions, ranging from low to high intensities. While these corals can tolerate a wide spectrum of light, it is recommended to acclimate new specimens to lower light levels initially to prevent potential damage from overexposure. If transitioning to brighter aquariums, it is important to monitor for signs of coral stress such as bleaching and adjust lighting accordingly.
Water Flow
Moderate to high water movement is ideal for Zoanthids and Palythoa, ensuring detritus does not settle on the coral surface. While increased flow can promote polyp extension, periodic low flow is beneficial for feeding purposes. Providing a balanced flow regime allows these corals to effectively capture microscopic prey and maintain their health.
Feeding
Although Zoanthids and Palythoa primarily rely on photosynthesis for energy production through their symbiotic zooxanthellae, they can capture prey as well. Palythoa polyps demonstrate a greater tendency to actively feed compared to Zoanthids. These corals benefit from spot feeding with liquid or powdery foods containing phytoplankton and zooplankton to supplement their nutritional intake.
Propagation
Both Zoanthids and Palythoa have been successfully propagated in captivity, making them excellent candidates for aquaculture initiatives. With continued efforts in sustainable harvesting methods, it is feasible to maintain healthy populations of these corals for future generations.
Localization & Habitat
Zoanthids and Palythoa are found in coral reefs worldwide, with a significant presence in the Indo-Pacific regions including areas such as Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. These corals showcase a remarkable diversity of colors and patterns, contributing to their widespread popularity among aquarium enthusiasts.