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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 hobby for their vibrant colors and patterns, appealing to both novice enthusiasts and experienced collectors seeking rare variations. These corals are known for their rapid multiplication once acclimated, making them a popular choice among aquarists.
Demands and Hardiness
Zoanthus and Palythoa exhibit resilience and adaptability, tolerating a broad spectrum of lighting intensities and water conditions. They are relatively easy to maintain, thriving in environments with fluctuating parameters. Zoanthus and Palythoa propagate quickly once settled, making them suitable for aquaculture efforts.
Lighting
These corals have low to high lighting demands, accommodating a wide range of light conditions within an aquarium setup. While they can thrive in varying light intensities, it is recommended to acclimate new specimens to lower light levels initially to prevent potential light stress.
Water Flow
Moderate water flow is ideal for Zoanthus and Palythoa to prevent detritus accumulation, which can impede growth and lead to potential health issues. Strong and consistent water flow, supplemented with occasional bursts of increased flow, is beneficial for maintaining a clean colony and flushing away waste materials generated by the corals. Manual methods, like using a turkey baster to dislodge detritus, can be employed in the absence of controllable pumps.
Feeding
While Zoanthus and Palythoa primarily rely on photosynthesis from their symbiotic zooxanthellae for energy, they can also capture prey. Liquid and powdery foods rich in Phytoplankton and Zooplankton particles serve as suitable supplementary nutrition for these corals, with Palythoa displaying a more active feeding behavior compared to Zoanthus.
Propagation
Both Zoanthus and Palythoa have been successfully propagated in captivity, making them excellent candidates for aquaculture initiatives. The potential for sustainable harvesting exists, with efforts focused on expanding propagation techniques to enhance conservation and availability of these corals in the hobbyist market.
Localization & Habitat
Zoanthus and Palythoa are commonly found in coral reefs worldwide, particularly in regions such as the Indopacific islands of Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their diverse range of colors and patterns contribute to their popularity in reef aquariums, with enthusiasts appreciating the aesthetic appeal and ease of care these corals offer.