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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 known for their wide range of colors and patterns, making them popular among both novice hobbyists and collectors seeking rare color morphs. They are relatively easy to care for and reproduce quickly once acclimated to their environment.
Demands and Hardiness
Zoanthus and Palythoa are adaptable to a wide range of lighting intensities and water conditions, making them tolerant of various setups. While they mainly derive energy from zooxanthellae, they also have the ability to capture prey. Palythoa are observed to be more adept at feeding compared to Zoanthus.
Lighting
These corals are not demanding in terms of lighting and can thrive under diverse light types, including low to high light conditions. Acclimating newly acquired specimens to lower light levels is recommended to prevent damage from overexposure.
Water Flow
Moderate water flow is suitable for Zoanthus and Palythoa corals, as it helps minimize detritus buildup and flushes away waste that could impede growth or cause decline. Strong, consistent flow with occasional bursts of intense flow is beneficial to prevent detritus accumulation. Manual removal of detritus can be done using a turkey baster for established colonies.
Feeding
Both Zoanthus and Palythoa corals can feed on liquid and powdery foods, with a preference for small particles such as Phytoplankton and Zooplankton. While they primarily rely on their zooxanthellae for nutrition, they exhibit the ability to capture prey for additional sustenance.
Propagation
Zoanthus and Palythoa corals have been successfully propagated in captivity, making them ideal candidates for aquaculture and potentially sustainable harvesting practices. Extensive propagation efforts contribute to conservation and reduce pressure on wild populations.
Localization & Habitat
Found in coral reefs worldwide, Zoanthus and Palythoa corals are commonly harvested from regions in the Indo-Pacific, including Fiji, Tonga, the Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their remarkable array of colors and patterns adds to their popularity in the reef aquarium hobby.