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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 beginners and collectors alike. These corals are known to multiply rapidly once acclimated to their environment, making them a popular choice for aquarists.
Demands and Hardiness
Zoanthus and Palythoa exhibit a high level of hardiness, tolerating a broad spectrum of lighting intensities and water conditions. They are resilient and adaptable, thriving in varying setups with ease. These corals are relatively low-maintenance and do not require specialized care to flourish in an aquarium setting.
Lighting
Both Zoanthus and Palythoa are not particularly demanding in terms of lighting requirements. They can thrive under a wide range of lighting intensities, making them suitable for different types of lighting systems. Acclimating these corals in lower light initially is advisable to prevent potential damage from excessive light exposure.
Water Flow
Moderate water flow is ideal for Zoanthus and Palythoa corals. Their structure tends to accumulate detritus, which can impede growth or lead to decline if not managed properly. Strong and consistent water flow, supplemented with occasional bursts of intense flow, aids in preventing detritus buildup and flushing away waste produced by the colony.
Feeding
While Zoanthus and Palythoa primarily rely on zooxanthellae for energy, they can also capture prey for additional nutrition. Liquid and powdery foods containing Phytoplankton and Zooplankton are suitable for supplementing their diet. Palythoa polyps are often more actively engaged in feeding compared to Zoanthus counterparts.
Propagation
Both Zoanthus and Palythoa corals have been extensively propagated in captivity, making them excellent candidates for aquaculture. With proper techniques, sustainable harvests can be achieved over time, contributing to the conservation and availability of these captivating corals in the hobby.
Localization & Habitat
Zoanthus and Palythoa are commonly found in coral reefs across the globe, particularly in the Indopacific region, including Fiji, Tonga, the Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Known for their diverse array of colors and patterns, these corals are harvested from various locations to meet the demand of aquarium enthusiasts worldwide.