Description

🟠 Zoanthids & Palythoas – Description & Care

Common Names: Zoas, Palys, Button Polyps
Scientific Names: Zoanthus spp. and Palythoa spp.
Origin: Indo-Pacific, Caribbean
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Semi-aggressive (mild chemical warfare)
Lighting: Low to High (adaptable, depends on species)
Water Flow: Low to Moderate
Placement: Rockwork or substrate (spread encrusting-style)
Growth Form: Colonial polyps on mat-like tissue

🌈 Description:

Zoanthids are small, brightly colored polyps that grow in tight clusters. They come in a vast range of color morphs with trade names like “Rasta,” “Sunny D,” or “Armor of God.” Zoas are prized for their vibrant colors, fast growth, and ease of fragging.

Palythoas are closely related but usually have larger polyps and thicker mats. They are often duller in color but grow faster and can quickly cover rocks. Some varieties, like “Nuclear Green” or “Purple Death,” are very popular.

⚠️ Caution: Some species, especially Palythoas, can produce palytoxin, a potent toxin harmful to humans. Always handle with gloves, eye protection, and good ventilation—never frag or boil them indoors without protection.

🌊 Tank Requirements:

• Tank size: Any size, great for nano reefs and large displays.
• Ideal for beginners, but capable of stunning displays in expert tanks.
• Water parameters:
  • Temp: 75–80°F (24–27°C)
  • Salinity: 1.024–1.026
  • pH: 8.1–8.4
  • Nitrate: 2–10 ppm
  • Phosphate: 0.02–0.1 ppm
  • Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH
  • Calcium: 400–450 ppm
  • Magnesium: 1250–1350 ppm

🍤 Feeding:

While Zoas and Palys rely heavily on photosynthesis via zooxanthellae, they can benefit from occasional feedings:

• Reef Roids
• Coral Frenzy
• Finely chopped mysis or plankton
• Target feeding encourages faster growth but isn’t mandatory.

📌 Placement Tips:

• Start in lower light and gradually acclimate to higher PAR.
• Can be glued or placed on rocks, frag plugs, or islands.
• Avoid placing near aggressive stingers (e.g., torches or hammers).
• They can spread quickly—consider isolating to control growth.