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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, commonly known as Zoas and Palys, are a diverse group of corals highly sought after in the reef keeping hobby for their wide range of vivid colors and patterns. They are popular among both novice aquarists and experienced collectors due to their stunning appearance and relatively easy care requirements.
Demands and Hardiness
Zoanthus and Palythoa corals are known for their adaptability to a broad spectrum of lighting intensities and water conditions, making them ideal for various reef tank setups. They are robust and can thrive in environments with fluctuating parameters, making them a suitable choice for beginner hobbyists. Zoanthus colonies proliferate rapidly once they are acclimated to their surroundings.
Lighting
These corals have a flexible lighting preference, tolerating both low and high light conditions. While they are not as demanding as some other coral species, it is recommended to acclimate Zoanthus and Palythoa to lower light levels initially to prevent light-induced stress or bleaching.
Water Flow
Moderate water flow is essential for Zoanthus and Palythoa corals to thrive. Strong, consistent water flow helps prevent detritus buildup, which can impede colony growth or lead to decline. Regularly flushing the colony with short bursts of intense flow or manual intervention with a turkey baster can aid in maintaining a clean, healthy environment for these corals.
Feeding
Despite deriving much of their nutritional requirements from photosynthetic algae, Zoanthus and Palythoa corals possess the ability to capture prey. While Palythoa polyps display a more pronounced feeding response compared to Zoanthus, both benefit from occasional feeding of liquid or powdered foods rich in Phytoplankton and Zooplankton.
Propagation
Zoas and Palys have been successfully propagated in captivity, making them prime candidates for aquaculture efforts. With proper techniques, sustainable harvesting practices can be developed over time, reducing the need for wild collection and helping conserve natural coral populations.
Localization & Habitat
Zoanthus and Palythoa corals can be found in coral reefs worldwide, with major harvesting areas situated in the Indopacific regions such as Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their abundance of vibrant hues and intricate designs makes them a highly coveted addition to reef aquariums, showcasing the biodiversity and beauty of coral ecosystems.