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 are a captivating group of corals widely cherished in the reef keeping community for their diverse colors and patterns, appealing to both novice aquarists and experienced collectors in search of unique morphs. These corals proliferate rapidly once acclimated to their environment and offer a stunning addition to any reef tank.
Demands and Hardiness
Being relatively undemanding, Zoanthus and Palythoa corals exhibit remarkable hardiness, accommodating a broad spectrum of lighting intensities and water parameters. Their adaptability makes them suitable for various tank setups, establishing them as favored choices among coral enthusiasts.
Lighting
Zoanthus and Palythoa corals are versatile in terms of lighting requirements, tolerating a wide range of intensities from low to high levels. While they can thrive under different lighting conditions, acclimating these corals to lower light settings upon introduction is advisable to prevent potential stress from excessive illumination.
Water Flow
Moderate water flow is recommended for Zoanthus and Palythoa corals to prevent detritus buildup that can impede growth or lead to decline. Strong and consistent water movement aids in keeping the colonies clean and flushing away waste products, contributing to their overall health and well-being.
Feeding
Though Zoanthus and Palythoa primarily rely on the photosynthetic products of their zooxanthellae for sustenance, they can also capture prey. While Palythoa polyps exhibit a greater propensity for feeding compared to Zoanthus, providing liquid and powdery foods containing Phytoplankton and Zooplankton particles can supplement their nutritional needs effectively.
Propagation
Both Zoanthus and Palythoa corals have been successfully propagated through aquaculture efforts, indicating their potential for sustainable harvesting in the future. These corals offer an excellent opportunity for cultivation, showcasing their ability to thrive and reproduce in controlled tank environments.
Localization & Habitat
Zoanthus and Palythoa corals can be found in coral reefs across the globe, with major harvesting sites situated in the Indopacific regions such as Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their wide array of vibrant colors and intricate patterns make them highly sought-after specimens within the reef aquarium hobby, contributing to their popularity among enthusiasts.