Top Shelf Aquatics’ Coral Care Series - Zoanthids and Palythoas

Be our friend: @topshelfaquatics Zoanthids and Palythoas are arguably one of the easiest and most popular coral species to keep. Loved by collectors and hobbyists of all experience levels due to their endless variety of color and patterns. Commonly referred to as “Zoas” and “Palys”. They are both considered colonial-type corals, growing into large colonies. Typically, Zoanthids are more sought after and desired by hobbyists as they tend to exhibit more eccentric patterns and coloration in comparison to Palythoas. Zoanthids tend to have a smaller polyp size, while Palythoas tend to display larger polyps. Of course, this is not always the case, but generally speaking. Provide your zoas and palys with low to moderate flow. This prevents buildup of debris within the colony. Preventing possible bacterial infections. We recommend placing new frags at the bottom of your aquarium in a low-light area to give them time to adjust to your system. If the frag needs more light the stalk will begin to stretch for the light. Zoas and Palys tolerate an array of aquarium environments as far as water chemistry, but tend to thrive in a slightly more nutrient-rich environment. The biggest key to keeping Zoas and Palys happy is stability. A happy, healthy colony will have a tight mat of tissue that connects the individual polyps as opposed to blotchy intermittent runners connecting the individual polyps. Producing small new polyps that surround the main polyp or colony. Zoanthids and Palys exhibit a more passive-type of feeding style. Zoas and paly’s rely on light for the majority of their nutritional needs but benefit from the regular dosing of amino acids and liquid foods like Fuel and Phytoplankton. Let’s get serious for a minute. The most important thing to note about these corals (mainly Palys) is that they both contain a toxin called: Palytoxin. While Palytoxin poisoning cases are extremely rare, always take precautions when handling these animals. The easiest way to avoid Palytoxin exposure is by education and practicing proper safety precautions. Glove and eye protection are highly encouraged when handling, fragging and removing them from the water. Do not under any circumstance scrub, dip, boil rocks or frag plugs with existing Zoanthid or Palythoa polyps. This can irritate the polyps and potentially cause them to release the Palytoxin. The toxin can potentially become airborne, exposing you and anyone within the vicinity. Take the proper safety precautions and you should have no worries when it comes to Palytoxin exposure. In a few words, Zoanthids and Palythoas are fun, easy corals to keep that come in endless variations of colors and patterns. They are one of the few corals that are sought after by both beginner and advanced hobbyists alike. While Zoas and Palys may be small, don’t underestimate their ability to bring that pop of color and natural-reef aesthetic to your aquarium. Want to purchase this coral or interested in our other products? Music: Deep house fashion music by infraction -