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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 vibrant colors and patterns, making them a popular choice among reef hobbyists. These corals are highly sought after by both beginners and collectors for their striking appearance and ease of care.
Demands and Hardiness
Zoanthus and Palythoa are relatively easy to care for, tolerating a broad range of lighting intensities and water conditions. Once acclimated, these corals tend to multiply rapidly, contributing to their appeal in reef aquariums. It is important to maintain clean conditions for zoas, as detritus buildup can hinder their growth and even lead to decline or death. Providing moderate to strong water flow is crucial for preventing detritus accumulation and ensuring the overall health of the colony.
Lighting
When it comes to lighting, Zoanthus and Palythoa are not as demanding as some other coral species. They can thrive under various lighting types, including both low and high light conditions. However, it is recommended to acclimate new specimens to lower light areas to prevent potential damage from overexposure.
Water Flow
Moderate to strong water flow is beneficial for Zoanthus and Palythoa corals, as it helps in preventing detritus buildup and flushing away waste generated by the colony. Designing flow patterns that provide consistent flow with occasional bursts of stronger flow is ideal for these corals. For manual maintenance, gently dislodging any detritus buildup with a turkey baster can help, but it should be done cautiously to avoid damaging newly attached colonies.
Feeding
While Zoanthus and Palythoa corals primarily rely on the products of their zooxanthellae for energy, they also have the ability to capture prey. Palythoa polyps tend to exhibit a greater propensity for feeding compared to Zoanthus counterparts. Liquid and powdery foods containing Phytoplankton and Zooplankton in small particle sizes are suitable for feeding these corals.
Propagation
Both Zoanthus and Palythoa corals have been successfully propagated in captivity, making them excellent candidates for aquaculture. With proper techniques, it is possible to achieve sustainable harvesting of these corals over time.
Localization & Habitat
Zoanthus and Palythoa corals can be found in coral reefs worldwide, with primary harvesting locations being the islands of the Indopacific such as Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their incredible range of colors and patterns have solidified their position as one of the most popular coral species in the reef aquarium hobby.