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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
Blue Hornet Zoanthids, a member of the Zoanthid family, are named for their striking alternating purple and green tentacles and beautiful baby blue faces, featuring a distinctive green ring. These corals are highly sought after in the reef-keeping hobby due to their diverse range of colors and patterns, appealing to both novice enthusiasts and seasoned collectors.
Demands and Hardiness (Setup)
Zoanthus and Palythoa, including Blue Hornet Zoanthids, are relatively easy to care for, tolerating a broad spectrum of lighting intensities and water conditions. Once acclimated, these corals exhibit rapid multiplication. They thrive in environments with moderate water flow, which helps prevent detritus buildup – critical for maintaining a healthy colony.
Lighting
Blue Hornet Zoanthids, like other Zoanthus and Palythoa species, are not particularly demanding regarding lighting. They can adapt to various lighting types, encompassing both low and high light setups. Acclimating newly acquired specimens to lower light conditions is recommended to prevent damage from excessive exposure.
Water Flow
Moderate water flow is ideal for Blue Hornet Zoanthids, allowing for the removal of detritus that can impede growth or lead to colony decline. Consistent water movement, supplemented by periodic bursts of stronger flow, aids in flushing away waste and debris. Manual intervention, such as using a turkey baster to dislodge buildup, can help maintain cleanliness, especially for well-established colonies.
Feeding
Blue Hornet Zoanthids primarily rely on products produced by their zooxanthellae for sustenance. While they can capture prey, Palythoa polyps exhibit a greater tendency towards active feeding compared to Zoanthus counterparts. Only liquid and powdery foods containing Phytoplankton and Zooplankton, ranging from 20um to 1mm particles, are suitable for these corals' nutritional needs.
Propagation
Zoanthus and Palythoa, including Blue Hornet Zoanthids, have been extensively propagated in captivity, making them excellent candidates for aquaculture. Sustainable harvesting practices are being developed to ensure the long-term viability of these corals in the hobby.
Localization & Habitat
Found in coral reefs worldwide, Blue Hornet Zoanthids are commonly sourced from Indopacific regions such as Fiji, Tonga, the Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their stunning array of colors and patterns contributes to their popularity among reef aquarium enthusiasts, showcasing the beauty and diversity of these captivating corals.