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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 due to their vibrant colors and striking patterns. They are favored by both novice enthusiasts and seasoned collectors for their wide range of color morphs.
Demands and Hardiness
Zoanthus and Palythoa are relatively easy to care for, tolerating a broad spectrum of lighting intensities and water conditions. Once established, these corals exhibit fast multiplication rates, making them a resilient addition to reef tanks. It is essential to maintain clean conditions to prevent detritus buildup, which can hinder growth or lead to colony decline.
Lighting
These corals are not demanding when it comes to lighting, accommodating various light types from low to high. While they can thrive under different lighting conditions, acclimating new specimens to lower light levels reduces the risk of light-induced damage.
Water Flow
Moderate water flow is ideal for Zoanthus and Palythoa, as strong currents help prevent detritus accumulation and efficiently remove waste produced by the colony. Designing flow patterns with periodic bursts of intense flow or manual removal with a gentle water flow using a turkey baster aids in maintaining a clean and healthy environment for these corals.
Feeding
While Zoanthus and Palythoa primarily rely on their symbiotic zooxanthellae for energy, they can also capture prey. Liquid and powdery foods containing phytoplankton and zooplankton particles are suitable for supplementing their diet. Palythoa polyps exhibit a stronger feeding response compared to Zoanthus counterparts.
Propagation
Both Zoanthus and Palythoa have been extensively propagated in captivity, making them excellent candidates for aquaculture. Sustainable harvest practices can potentially be achieved over time, contributing to the conservation efforts of these corals.
Localization & Habitat
Zoanthus and Palythoa are commonly found in coral reefs worldwide, with specimens often sourced from regions such as the Indopacific islands of Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their wide array of colors and patterns have solidified their popularity among reef aquarium enthusiasts.