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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 diverse, offering a wide array of vibrant colors and patterns, making them a sought-after choice among reef hobbyists. Renowned for their ease of care and rapid multiplication, these corals are favored by beginners and collectors alike for their beauty and hardiness.
Demands and Hardiness
Zoanthus and Palythoa corals are low-maintenance, tolerating a broad spectrum of lighting intensities and water conditions. They acclimate well to various lighting types, spanning from low to high, and are known to flourish in both settings. These corals exhibit fast growth rates and are relatively undemanding in terms of care requirements, thriving once settled in a suitable environment.
Lighting
Both Zoanthus and Palythoa corals exhibit a versatility in lighting preferences, thriving under a broad range of light intensities. While they can adapt to low-light conditions, it is advisable to acclimate new specimens gradually to prevent damage from excessive light exposure. Striking a balance in lighting intensity is crucial to ensure the health and vibrancy of these corals.
Water Flow
Maintaining a moderate to strong water flow is essential for Zoanthus and Palythoa corals, as their structure tends to attract detritus accumulation. Adequate water flow helps in minimizing debris buildup, promoting a cleaner environment for the colony to thrive. Periodic manual interventions, such as gentle water squirting with a turkey baster, can aid in dislodging detritus and ensuring the well-being of the corals.
Feeding
While Zoanthus and Palythoa corals primarily rely on their zooxanthellae for energy production, they possess the ability to capture prey for supplementary nutrition. Palythoa corals display a higher propensity for feeding compared to Zoanthus counterparts, showcasing a versatile feeding behavior in a home aquarium setting.
Propagation
Zoanthus and Palythoa corals have been extensively propagated in captivity, making them ideal candidates for aquaculture practices. With sustainable harvesting practices in place, these corals have the potential for further propagation and conservation efforts, ensuring their availability and preservation in the reef aquarium hobby.
Localization & Habitat
Found in coral reefs across the globe, Zoanthus and Palythoa corals are commonly harvested from the Indopacific regions, including Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their diverse colorations and patterns contribute to their popularity among reef enthusiasts, adding a vibrant touch to marine aquarium displays.