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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 highly favored in the reef keeping hobby due to their diverse range of colors and patterns, appealing to both novice enthusiasts and serious collectors seeking unique color morphs. These corals thrive well in aquarium setups and are known to reproduce rapidly once acclimated.
Demands and Hardiness
Zoanthus and Palythoa are relatively easy to care for, displaying tolerance to varying lighting intensities and water conditions. These corals are hardy and can adapt to a wide spectrum of environmental factors, making them suitable for aquarium enthusiasts of different experience levels.
Lighting
Zoanthus and Palythoa corals are not as particular about lighting requirements compared to other coral species. They can acclimate to different lighting types, ranging from low to high intensity. However, it is advisable to initially place new additions in areas with lower light to prevent potential damage from overexposure.
Water Flow
Moderate water flow is ideal for Zoanthus and Palythoa corals. These corals have a tendency to accumulate detritus, which can impede their growth or lead to detrimental consequences. Strong water flow aids in minimizing detritus buildup and flushing away waste produced by the colony, contributing to a healthier environment for the corals.
Feeding
While Zoanthus and Palythoa corals primarily rely on their zooxanthellae for energy, they possess the ability to capture prey. Palythoa polyps are observed to be more active feeders compared to Zoanthus counterparts. Liquid and powdery foods rich in Phytoplankton and Zooplankton particles serve as suitable nutrition sources for these corals.
Propagation
Both Zoanthus and Palythoa corals have been extensively propagated in captivity, making them excellent candidates for aquaculture. With proper efforts, it is feasible to achieve sustainable harvesting practices for these corals, ensuring their conservation and availability in the hobbyist market.
Localization & Habitat
Zoanthus and Palythoa corals are commonly found in coral reefs worldwide, with main harvesting locations in the Indopacific regions such as Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their striking array of colors and patterns contribute to their popularity among reef aquarium enthusiasts.