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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 are a diverse group of corals highly sought after in the reef keeping hobby for their wide range of colors and patterns, appealing to both novice enthusiasts and collectors in search of unique color morphs. These corals are known for their rapid proliferation once acclimated to their environment.
Demands and Hardiness
Zoanthus and Palythoa are relatively easy to care for, adapting well to varying lighting intensities and water conditions. They are hardy corals that can thrive in setups with a broad spectrum of parameters, making them suitable for aquarists of different experience levels. Regular cleaning is essential to prevent detritus buildup, which can impede growth or lead to coral decline.
Lighting
These corals are resilient to a wide range of lighting intensities, tolerating both low and high light conditions. New acquisitions should be acclimated to lower light levels initially to avoid potential damage from excessive light exposure. While Zoanthus and Palythoa do not have specific lighting demands, providing a gradual transition to higher light can benefit their overall health.
Water Flow
Moderate water flow is recommended for Zoanthus and Palythoa corals to prevent detritus accumulation, which may hinder growth and survival. Consistent water movement helps in flushing away waste materials produced by the colony. For optimal care, it is advised to incorporate short bursts of strong flow alongside steady circulation patterns to maintain a clean and healthy environment for these corals.
Feeding
While Zoanthus and Palythoa primarily rely on photosynthesis from their zooxanthellae for energy, they can also capture prey. Palythoa polyps display a higher inclination towards actively feeding compared to Zoanthus. Liquid and powdery foods containing Phytoplankton and Zooplankton in small particle sizes are suitable for supplemental feeding to support the nutritional needs of these corals.
Propagation
Zoanthus and Palythoa corals have been successfully propagated in captivity, making them ideal candidates for aquaculture. With ongoing efforts, sustainable harvesting practices can be achieved to reduce pressure on wild populations. Both Zoas and Palys show promising potential for continued propagation initiatives within the reef aquarium community.
Localization & Habitat
Found in coral reefs across the globe, Zoanthus and Palythoa species are commonly harvested from regions like the Indo-Pacific islands, including Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their captivating array of colors and intricate patterns have contributed to their popularity within the reef aquarium hobby, reflecting the beauty and diversity of coral ecosystems worldwide.