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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 beginners and experienced collectors. Zoanthus and Palythoa are known to multiply rapidly once acclimated in a tank, making them a popular choice for many aquarists.
Demands and Hardiness:
Both Zoanthus and Palythoa are relatively easy to maintain, tolerating a broad spectrum of lighting intensities and water conditions. While they primarily rely on their zooxanthellae for nutrition, both polyp types can also capture prey, with Palythoa displaying a more eager feeding behavior compared to Zoanthus.
Lighting:
Zoanthus and Palythoa are considered versatile in terms of lighting requirements. They can thrive under various lighting setups, ranging from low to high intensities. However, it is recommended to acclimate these corals to lower light initially to prevent damage from overexposure.
Water Flow:
Moderate water flow is suitable for Zoanthus and Palythoa. Strong and consistent water circulation is beneficial in preventing detritus buildup, which can impede growth or lead to colony deterioration. Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to ensure the health of these corals, with manual intervention like using a turkey baster for periodic cleaning if necessary.
Feeding:
Zoanthus and Palythoa primarily feed on phytoplankton and zooplankton, with liquid and powdery foods being suitable for their diet. While they acquire energy from zooxanthellae, both corals have the capacity to capture prey for supplemental nutrition, with Palythoa showing a higher inclination towards feeding compared to Zoanthus.
Propagation:
Both Zoanthus and Palythoa have been successfully propagated in captivity, making them ideal candidates for aquaculture. With extensive propagation efforts, it is feasible to achieve sustainable harvesting practices for these corals, ensuring their availability in the hobby without depleting wild populations.
Localization & Habitat:
Zoanthus and Palythoa can be found in coral reefs worldwide, with an abundance of colors and patterns making them highly desirable additions to reef aquariums. These corals are commonly sourced from regions such as the Indopacific islands like Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef, reflecting their popularity and widespread distribution in the aquarium trade.