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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 a diverse group that comes in a wide range of colors and patterns, making them highly sought after in the reef keeping hobby. They are popular among both beginners and experienced collectors due to their striking appearances and ease of care. These corals tend to multiply rapidly once settled in a suitable environment.
Demands and Hardiness
Zoanthus and Palythoa corals are relatively easy to care for, with a high tolerance for various lighting intensities and water conditions. They are not as demanding as some other coral species and can thrive in settings with low to high lighting. Adequate water flow is essential to prevent detritus buildup, which can hinder growth and even lead to decline in the colony.
Lighting
These corals can adapt to a wide range of lighting types and are able to thrive in both low and high light conditions. While they are resilient, it is recommended to acclimate new arrivals to lower light areas to minimize the risk of damage from excessive light exposure.
Water Flow
Moderate water flow is ideal for Zoanthus and Palythoa corals to prevent detritus accumulation, which can impede growth and affect their health. A strong yet consistent flow, with occasional bursts of increased flow, helps in keeping the colony clean and flushing away waste. Manual methods like using a turkey baster can be employed to dislodge detritus buildup, but caution must be exercised with newly attached frags.
Feeding
While these corals primarily derive energy from their zooxanthellae, they also have the ability to capture prey. Palythoa polyps tend to feed more actively than Zoanthus. Suitable foods include liquid and powdery options, as they typically feed on tiny organisms such as Phytoplankton and Zooplankton.
Propagation
Zoanthus and Palythoa corals have been successfully propagated in captivity and are considered good candidates for aquaculture. With proper care and management, sustainable harvesting practices can be established over time.
Localization & Habitat
Zoanthus and Palythoa corals are commonly found in coral reefs worldwide, with a significant portion harvested from locations such as the Indopacific islands including Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their vibrant array of colors and patterns contribute to their popularity in reef aquariums.