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Datasheet
| Care Description | Zoanthus 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 uncommon color morphs. In terms of care, both Zoanthus 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 |
| 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
Zoanthus and Palythoa corals are a diverse group highly favored in reef keeping circles due to the vast array of colors and patterns they exhibit, ranging from vibrant shades to intricate designs. Their popularity spans across beginner aquarists to seasoned collectors seeking rare color morphs, with both Zoanthus and Palythoa displaying striking visual appeal and rapid multiplication once acclimated to suitable conditions.
Demands and Hardiness
Zoanthus and Palythoa corals are relatively easy to maintain, showcasing a remarkable tolerance for varying lighting intensities and water parameters. These corals exhibit resilience under a broad spectrum of lighting conditions, accommodating both low and high light environments. Acclimating them to lower light levels upon introduction is advisable to prevent potential damage from excessive light exposure.
Lighting
Zoanthus and Palythoa corals are among the less demanding corals in terms of lighting requirements, adapting well to different lighting types and intensities. They can thrive under both low and high light conditions, although precautionary acclimatization in lower light settings is recommended to avoid light-induced stress or bleaching.
Water Flow
Maintaining a moderate water flow is crucial for Zoanthus and Palythoa corals, as their compact structure can trap detritus, adversely affecting colony health and growth. Adequate water flow helps to minimize detritus buildup, flushing away waste products and preserving water quality. Providing strong, consistent water flow punctuated by brief bursts of intense flow or manual cleaning with a gentle water jet ensures a clean environment for these corals.
Feeding
Although Zoanthus and Palythoa corals primarily rely on energy produced by their zooxanthellae, they possess the capability to capture prey. Palythoa polyps exhibit a more active feeding behavior compared to Zoanthus, with both species benefiting from supplemental feeding of liquid and powdery foods containing phytoplankton and zooplankton particles in the range of 20um to 1mm.
Propagation
Both Zoanthus and Palythoa corals have been extensively propagated in captivity, making them suitable candidates for aquaculture endeavors. With proper cultivation techniques, sustainable harvesting practices can be established over time, contributing to the preservation and proliferation of these captivating coral species.
Localization & Habitat
Zoanthus and Palythoa corals are commonly found in coral reefs worldwide, particularly sourced from regions in the Indopacific such as Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their diverse coloration and intricate patterns have cemented their status as highly sought-after corals in reef aquarium enthusiasts, showcasing the beauty and allure of these marine organisms in captive settings.