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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, belonging to the Zoanthid family, are a diverse group of corals highly sought after in the reef-keeping hobby due to their vast range of colors and patterns, appealing to both novice aquarists and seasoned collectors in search of rare color variations. Known for their rapid reproduction rate once acclimated, these corals are relatively easy to care for and can thrive in various lighting and water conditions.
Demands and Hardiness
Zoanthus and Palythoa are undemanding corals that can adapt to a wide spectrum of lighting intensities, making them suitable for environments with low to high light levels. They exhibit tolerance towards fluctuations in water parameters, showcasing resilience against varying conditions once settled. Regular maintenance and attention to water quality are crucial to prevent detritus accumulation, which can impede colony growth or lead to decline if not managed effectively. Strong water flow is essential to minimize detritus buildup and flush away waste produced by the colony, promoting overall health and vitality.
Lighting
These corals are versatile in their lighting requirements, capable of thriving under different types of lighting. While they can tolerate both low and high light conditions, acclimating newly acquired specimens in lower light settings is advisable to reduce the risk of light-related stress or damage.
Water Flow
Zoanthus and Palythoa benefit from moderate water flow within the aquarium. Adequate water circulation helps prevent detritus accumulation, promoting a cleaner environment conducive to their growth and well-being. Implementing a flow pattern that includes strong, consistent flow supplemented with short bursts of increased flow is beneficial for keeping these corals healthy. Manual intervention, such as gently squirting water at the colony with a turkey baster to dislodge debris, can aid in maintaining a clean habitat for the corals.
Feeding
While these corals derive a significant portion of their nutrition from zooxanthellae, they also possess the ability to capture prey. Palythoa polyps exhibit a higher tendency to feed actively compared to Zoanthus counterparts. Liquid and powdery foods containing phytoplankton and zooplankton in particle sizes ranging from 20μm to 1mm are suitable for supplementing their diet.
Propagation
Zoanthus and Palythoa have been successfully propagated in captivity, making them ideal candidates for aquaculture efforts. With extensive cultivation, achieving a sustainable harvest of these corals is a feasible goal. The propagation of these corals plays a vital role in conserving natural populations and supporting the long-term sustainability of reef ecosystems.
Localization & Habitat
Found in coral reefs across the globe, Zoanthus and Palythoa are primarily harvested from regions in the Indopacific, including Fiji, Tonga, the Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their vibrant array of colors and intricate patterns contribute to their popularity within the reef aquarium hobby, adding visual intrigue and diversity to marine setups.