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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 reef keeping, prized for their wide range of vivid colors and patterns. Their popularity spans from enthusiastic beginners to seasoned collectors, with Zoanthus and Palythoa being known for their rapid multiplication once settled in an aquarium setting.
Demands and Hardiness
These corals are relatively low-maintenance, able to thrive in varying lighting intensities and water conditions. Zoanthus and Palythoa can tolerate a broad spectrum of light levels, from low to high, with recommendations to acclimate new specimens under lower light to prevent light-induced damage.
Lighting
Zoanthus and Palythoa are not picky when it comes to lighting, being adaptable to different types and intensities. They can flourish under both low and high light conditions, although caution is advised to avoid overexposure during acclimation.
Water Flow
Moderate water flow is ideal for Zoanthus and Palythoa, as their structure tends to accumulate detritus, potentially hindering growth or causing die-back. Strong, consistent water flow supplemented with occasional bursts of increased flow or manual gentle cleaning with a turkey baster can help maintain a healthy environment for these corals.
Feeding
While they primarily derive nutrients from zooxanthellae, Zoanthus and Palythoa can also capture prey. Palythoa tend to exhibit a greater feeding response compared to Zoanthus, showcasing their ability to supplement their diet with captured food particles.
Propagation
Both Zoanthus and Palythoa have been extensively propagated in captivity, making them excellent candidates for aquaculture. Sustainable harvesting practices have the potential to support long-term viability in the hobby.
Localization & Habitat
Found in coral reefs worldwide, Zoanthus and Palythoa are predominantly harvested from regions in the Indopacific such as Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their stunning array of colors and patterns contribute to their popularity in reef aquariums.