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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 community for their wide range of vibrant colors and patterns. These corals are popular among beginners and experienced collectors alike, with some enthusiasts actively seeking out rare color morphs.
Demands and Hardiness
Both Zoanthus and Palythoa are relatively easy to care for, tolerating a broad spectrum of lighting intensities and water conditions. Once acclimated, these corals tend to propagate rapidly, making them a favorable choice for aquarists looking to establish a thriving reef tank environment.
Lighting
Zoanthus and Palythoa are not overly demanding when it comes to lighting requirements. These corals can adapt to various lighting types, showing tolerance towards both low and high light conditions. It is advisable to acclimate new specimens in areas with lower light to prevent potential damage from excessive light exposure.
Water Flow
Moderate water flow is recommended for Zoanthus and Palythoa corals to prevent detritus accumulation, which can impede growth or lead to colony decline. Strong and consistent water flow, supplemented by occasional bursts of intense flow, helps in minimizing detritus buildup and flushing away waste generated by the colony. Manual intervention, such as using a turkey baster to dislodge debris, can be employed for colonies that require cleaning.
Feeding
While these corals primarily derive energy from their symbiotic zooxanthellae, Zoanthus and Palythoa polyps possess the ability to capture prey. Palythoa generally exhibit a greater propensity for feeding compared to Zoanthus counterparts. Liquid and powdery foods containing phytoplankton and zooplankton in small particle sizes are suitable for supplementing the diet of these corals.
Propagation
Both Zoanthus and Palythoa have been extensively propagated in captivity and are considered excellent candidates for aquaculture. Sustainable harvesting practices are being explored to ensure the long-term viability of these coral species.
Localization & Habitat
Zoanthus and Palythoa corals are commonly found in coral reefs worldwide, with major harvesting sites located in the Indopacific region, including areas like Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their striking array of colors and patterns contribute to their popularity within the reef aquarium hobby community.