More info
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 for their wide range of colors and patterns. They are popular among both novice aquarists and experienced collectors due to their striking appearances and ease of care.
Demands and Hardiness
These corals are relatively easy to care for, tolerating a broad spectrum of lighting intensities and water conditions. Once acclimated, zoanthus and palythoa polyps can propagate rapidly. To ensure their well-being, it is recommended to acclimate new arrivals in lower light settings to prevent damage from excessive exposure.
Lighting
Zoanthus and Palythoa are not particularly demanding regarding lighting requirements. They thrive under various types of lighting, including low to high intensity. While they can adapt to both low and high light conditions, acclimating them slowly in lower light areas is advisable to prevent potential harm.
Water Flow
Moderate water flow is beneficial for Zoanthus and Palythoa colonies as their structure tends to collect detritus, which can impede growth or lead to decline. Adequate water flow helps minimize detritus buildup and flushes away waste produced by the colony. Providing consistent strong flow with occasional bursts of intense flow, or manually cleaning with a gentle water stream, can help maintain a healthy environment for these corals.
Feeding
Although Zoanthus and Palythoa polyps primarily derive energy from their symbiotic zooxanthellae, they also have the ability to capture prey. Palythoa polyps tend to feed more readily compared to Zoanthus. Supplemental feeding can be beneficial for these corals to ensure they receive additional nutrition for optimal growth.
Propagation
Both Zoanthus and Palythoa corals have been extensively propagated in captivity, making them suitable candidates for aquaculture. With proper care and propagation methods, it is possible to achieve sustainable harvesting practices over time.
Localization & Habitat
Zoanthus and Palythoa colonies are commonly found in coral reefs worldwide, with main harvesting areas in the Indopacific regions such as Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their vibrant colors and intricate patterns have made them highly sought-after additions to reef aquariums, contributing to their popularity in the hobby.