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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 beloved corals within the reef-keeping community, renowned for their vast array of colors and patterns that cater to the preferences of both novice aquarists and seasoned collectors in search of rare color morphs. These corals are highly sought-after for their striking and diverse appearances, making them a staple in many saltwater tanks.
Demands and Hardiness
Zoanthus and Palythoa are considered relatively easy to care for, as they have the remarkable ability to thrive in a wide range of lighting intensities and water conditions. Once acclimated, these corals exhibit rapid multiplication, further enhancing their attractiveness in aquarium settings. Careful attention to setup and maintenance is pivotal to ensuring the well-being of Zoanthus and Palythoa colonies.
Lighting
Both Zoanthus and Palythoa corals exhibit a versatile nature when it comes to lighting requirements. They can adapt well to varying levels of light, tolerating both low and high light conditions. It is advisable to introduce these corals to lower light settings initially to prevent potential damage caused by excessive light exposure.
Water Flow
Moderate water flow is essential for maintaining Zoanthus and Palythoa colonies in optimal health. Their structure tends to attract detritus accumulation, which can impede growth and lead to detrimental consequences if left unaddressed. Strong and consistent water flow, supplemented by occasional bursts of increased flow, helps prevent detritus buildup and efficiently flushes away waste generated by the coral colonies.
Feeding
While Zoanthus and Palythoa corals primarily derive nutrition from their symbiotic zooxanthellae, they also possess the ability to capture prey. Palythoa polyps exhibit a higher tendency to actively feed compared to Zoanthus counterparts. Liquid and powdery foods containing Phytoplankton and Zooplankton in particle sizes ranging from 20um to 1mm are suitable for ensuring adequate nutrition for these corals.
Propagation
Both Zoanthus and Palythoa corals have been extensively propagated in captivity, making them excellent candidates for aquaculture efforts. The potential for sustainable cultivation of these corals is promising, paving the way for reduced reliance on wild harvests and contributing to conservation initiatives within the reef-keeping community.
Localization & Habitat
Zoanthus and Palythoa corals are commonly found in coral reefs across various regions worldwide, with primary harvesting locations including the Indo-Pacific islands such as Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their vibrant colors and intricate patterns underline their popularity among reef aquarium enthusiasts, with their captivating presence enhancing the visual appeal of marine ecosystems.