More info
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 for their wide range of colors and patterns. They are popular among both novice enthusiasts and seasoned collectors due to the availability of uncommon color morphs, making them a staple in many aquariums.
Demands and Hardiness
These corals are relatively easy to care for, tolerating a broad spectrum of lighting intensities and water conditions. Once established, they exhibit rapid growth and reproduction rates, adding to their appeal in captivity. Zoanthus and Palythoa can adapt well to various environments, making them versatile additions to reef tanks.
Lighting
Zoanthus and Palythoa are not as demanding as other coral species in terms of lighting requirements. They can thrive under a wide range of lighting sources, from low to high intensities. However, acclimating new specimens to lower light levels initially is advisable, as they are more susceptible to damage from excessive light exposure than from insufficient light.
Water Flow
Maintaining moderate water flow is crucial for Zoanthus and Palythoa, as their polyp formation can accumulate detritus if not kept clean. Strong water flow aids in minimizing detritus buildup and flushing away waste produced by the colony, supporting overall health and growth. Controllable pumps or manual methods like using a turkey baster for periodic cleaning can help ensure optimal water flow for these corals.
Feeding
While Zoanthus and Palythoa primarily rely on photosynthesis through their symbiotic zooxanthellae for energy, they can also capture prey particles. Palythoa polyps tend to exhibit a more pronounced feeding response compared to Zoanthus, with liquid and powdery foods containing Phytoplankton and Zooplankton (20um-1mm particles) being suitable for their supplementary feeding needs.
Propagation
Both Zoanthus and Palythoa have been extensively propagated in captivity, making them ideal candidates for aquaculture efforts. With ongoing sustainable harvesting practices, it is feasible to cultivate these corals successfully over time to reduce dependency on wild populations.
Localization & Habitat
Zoanthus and Palythoa are commonly found in coral reefs worldwide, with harvesting primarily concentrated in the Indopacific region encompassing islands like Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their striking array of colors and intricate patterns contribute to their popularity within the reef aquarium hobby, showcasing the diverse beauty of these corals in artificial marine environments.