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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 community due to their wide range of colors and patterns, appealing to both novice hobbyists and experienced collectors. These corals are known for their quick propagation once acclimated, adding vibrancy to any aquarium setting.
Demands and Hardiness
Zoanthus and Palythoa are considered relatively easy to care for, accommodating various lighting intensities and water conditions. They are adaptable to both low and high light settings. Adequate water flow is crucial for their health, as detritus accumulation can impede growth and even lead to decline. Regular maintenance, including gentle dislodging of debris, is essential for colony upkeep.
Lighting
Both Zoanthus and Palythoa are versatile in terms of lighting requirements, tolerant of a wide spectrum of intensities. While they can thrive in both low and high light environments, acclimating new specimens in lower light areas is advisable to prevent potential damage from excessive exposure.
Water Flow
Maintaining moderate water flow is key to preventing detritus buildup, which can hinder colony health and growth. Strong, consistent flow with intermittent bursts of greater intensity helps flush away waste and debris, promoting a cleaner environment for the corals. Manual intervention, such as using a turkey baster to dislodge buildup, is recommended for established colonies.
Feeding
Although Zoanthus and Palythoa derive much of their nutrition from zooxanthellae, they can also capture prey. Liquid and powdery foods rich in Phytoplankton and Zooplankton are suitable for supplementing their diet. Palythoa polyps exhibit a more pronounced feeding behavior compared to Zoanthus, showcasing their ability to capture prey efficiently.
Propagation
With extensive successful propagation in captivity, Zoanthus and Palythoa are ideal candidates for aquaculture efforts. The potential for achieving sustainable harvests in the future is promising, indicating positive advancements in coral conservation.
Localization & Habitat
These corals are commonly found in coral reefs worldwide, particularly in the Indopacific regions like Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Zoanthus and Palythoa boast a diverse array of colors and patterns, solidifying their status as one of the most beloved coral varieties in the reef aquarium hobby.