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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 widely popular corals in the reef keeping hobby, known for their vast array of colors and patterns that attract both novice enthusiasts and seasoned collectors. With a rapid multiplication rate, these corals are favored for their striking appearances and ease of care, making them sought after in the trade market.
Demands and Hardiness (Setup)
Zoanthus and Palythoa exhibit high tolerance to a broad spectrum of lighting intensities and water conditions, establishing them as hardy additions to reef tanks. They can thrive in settings ranging from low to high lighting, and their adaptability to various light types allows for flexible placement within aquariums. It is recommended to acclimate new specimens in lower light regions initially, as they are more likely to incur damage from excessive light exposure rather than light deprivation.
Lighting
These corals are known for their low demands concerning lighting conditions. Zoanthus and Palythoa can flourish under a diverse range of lighting setups, accommodating both low and high light levels. While they primarily receive nourishment from their zooxanthellae, they can also capture prey if necessary, ensuring their energy requirements are met in various lighting environments.
Water Flow
Moderate water flow is ideal for Zoanthus and Palythoa, as it aids in preventing detritus accumulation that can impede colony growth or lead to deterioration. Maintaining clean conditions is essential for the health of these corals, and strong water flow helps flush away waste materials, promoting a pristine environment for their development. Implementing consistent flow patterns with intermittent strong surges, either through adjustable pumps or manual intervention with a turkey baster, can effectively manage detritus buildup and ensure optimal growth.
Feeding
While Zoanthus and Palythoa primarily derive energy from zooxanthellae, they possess the capacity to capture prey for sustenance. Liquid and powdery foods containing Phytoplankton and Zooplankton in minute particle sizes (20um-1mm) are suitable options for supplementary feeding. Notably, Palythoa polyps exhibit a stronger inclination towards feeding compared to Zoanthus counterparts, underscoring the importance of varied nutritional sources for these corals' well-being.
Propagation
Both Zoanthus and Palythoa have been extensively propagated in captive environments, making them suitable candidates for aquaculture initiatives. The prolific propagation of these corals underscores the potential for achieving sustainable harvest practices over time, affirming their viability for long-term cultivation and conservation efforts.
Localization & Habitat
Zoanthus and Palythoa are indigenous to coral reefs worldwide, with primary collection sites located in the Indo-Pacific region, including Fiji, Tonga, the Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their diverse colorations and intricate patterns contribute to their popularity among reef aquarists, reflecting the rich biodiversity and visual allure of these corals in both natural and captive settings.