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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 vibrant and colorful corals that are highly sought after in the reef keeping hobby due to their stunning array of colors and patterns. They are popular among both novice and experienced hobbyists, with a wide range of color morphs available, making them a favorite amongst rare coral collectors.
Demands and Hardiness
Zoanthus and Palythoa are relatively easy to care for, tolerating a broad spectrum of lighting intensities and water conditions. These corals multiply rapidly once they have acclimated to their environment, making them an ideal choice for reef tank enthusiasts. Proper water flow and cleanliness are crucial to their well-being.
Lighting
Zoanthus and Palythoa are not as demanding as other corals when it comes to lighting. They can thrive under a variety of lighting types, ranging from low to high intensity. It is recommended to acclimate them to lower light conditions initially to prevent damage from overexposure.
Water Flow
Moderate water flow is essential for Zoanthus and Palythoa corals to prevent detritus accumulation, which can impede growth or lead to complications. Strong, consistent water flow coupled with occasional bursts of intense flow helps flush away waste and detritus, keeping the colony clean and healthy.
Feeding
While Zoanthus and Palythoa mainly derive energy from their symbiotic zooxanthellae, they have the ability to capture prey. Palythoa polyps tend to feed more actively compared to Zoanthus. Liquid and powdery foods containing Phytoplankton and Zooplankton in small particle sizes are suitable for feeding these corals.
Propagation
Zoanthus and Palythoa corals have been successfully propagated in captivity, making them excellent candidates for aquaculture. Sustainable harvesting practices can be achieved over time, reducing the pressure on wild populations.
Localization & Habitat
These stunning corals can be found in coral reefs worldwide, with a particular abundance in the Indopacific regions such as Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their diverse colors and patterns contribute to their popularity in the reef aquarium hobby.