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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 corals are a diverse group highly sought after in the reef keeping hobby due to their wide range of colors and patterns, appealing to both novice enthusiasts and collectors interested in rare color morphs. These corals are known for their rapid multiplication once established, making them a popular choice in reef aquariums.
Demands and Hardiness
Zoanthus and Palythoa corals are generally easy to care for, tolerating a broad spectrum of lighting intensities and water conditions. They are not as demanding as some other coral species and can thrive under various lighting types, including both low and high light conditions. Acclimating new specimens to lower light areas initially is advisable to prevent damage from overexposure.
Lighting
Zoanthus and Palythoa corals are versatile when it comes to lighting requirements, adapting well to a wide range of light conditions from low to high intensity. While they are tolerant of different lighting setups, it is recommended to introduce them to lower light levels initially to prevent potential light-induced stress.
Water Flow
Moderate water flow is ideal for Zoanthus and Palythoa corals as strong water movement helps in minimizing detritus buildup within the colony. Regular water flow patterns, incorporating short bursts of stronger currents, aid in flushing away waste and detritus that could impede growth or harm the coral. Manual intervention, such as using a turkey baster to dislodge accumulated debris, can be beneficial for maintaining a clean environment for the corals.
Feeding
While Zoanthus and Palythoa corals derive a significant portion of their nutrition from their zooxanthellae, they can also capture prey. Palythoa corals have shown a greater tendency towards active feeding compared to Zoanthus species. Liquid and powdery foods containing Phytoplankton and Zooplankton (20um-1mm particles) are suitable for these corals, as they feed on minute organisms to supplement their diet.
Propagation
Both Zoanthus and Palythoa corals have been extensively propagated in captive environments, presenting a promising avenue for aquaculture. With ongoing efforts, achieving sustainable harvests of these corals seems feasible. These corals are well-suited for propagation practices, indicating potential for increased availability through controlled cultivation.
Localization & Habitat
Zoanthus and Palythoa corals are commonly found in coral reefs worldwide, with major harvesting locations including islands in the Indopacific region such as Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their vibrant array of colors and patterns contribute to their popularity among reef aquarium enthusiasts, making them one of the most coveted coral species in the hobby.