ZOAS & PALYS

Zoanthids and Palythoa are widespread in coral reefs globally, admired by reef enthusiasts for their diverse colors and patterns. Despite their popularity, there remains no definitive scientific consensus on the phylogeny of Zoanthids and Palythoa. In simpler terms, the distinction between Zoanthids and Palythoa is ambiguous. Coral taxonomists have reduced the number of recognized species from 300 to approximately 50. In our approach, we adopt hobbyist naming conventions rather than strictly adhering to scientific taxonomy. We classify larger polyp individuals as Palythoa and smaller polyp specimens as Zoanthids.

 

Have a question or looking for a specific coral? Contact us online, or give our team a call at 920-385-4802.

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Shop Zoanthids and Palythoas with Sanctuary Aquatics

Shopping for Zoanthids and Palythoas online has never been easier with Sanctuary Aquatics' large coral collection. Each coral in our inventory undergoes rigorous quarantine and acclimation processes to ensure you receive healthy, vibrant coral specimens. At Sanctuary Aquatics, our team takes pride in offering both common and rare coral varieties, all sourced responsibly.

 

When you shop with us, you'll find detailed photographs and descriptions of each coral variety, making it easy to choose the perfect additions for your tank! Each Zoas and Palys order is carefully packed with temperature-controlled materials and shipped quickly to minimize transit time and stress on the corals.

Why Zoanthids and Palythoas are Great Beginner Coral Species

Zoanthids (Zoas) and Palythoas (Palys) are among the most popular coral species for saltwater aquarium beginners, and for good reason! These hardy polyp corals are incredibly resilient and can thrive in a wide range of water conditions, making them perfect for those just starting their reef-keeping journey. These coral species are also fast-growing and quickly multiply, allowing new aquarists to experience the joy of quick coral growth early in their hobby.

 

What makes these corals particularly appealing is their stunning variety of colors and patterns, combined with their relatively low maintenance requirements. Unlike more demanding coral species, Zoas and Palys can adapt to varying light levels and water parameters, giving new reef-keepers more room for error as they learn the intricacies of coral care.

Zoanthids and Palythoas Coral Care

Maintaining healthy Zoas and Palys begins with proper water parameters. These corals thrive in standard reef aquarium conditions with:

  • Temperature range of 72-82°F,
  • Salinity between 1.020-1.025, and
  • pH levels of 8.1-8.4.

While they're forgiving of minor fluctuations, stability is key to their long-term success.

 

Lighting requirements are moderate, with these corals doing well under various LED or T5 lighting systems. They prefer moderate flow that allows their polyps to fully extend without being battered by strong currents.

 

While they can derive some nutrition from photosynthesis through their zooxanthellae, supplemental feeding with coral foods or small amounts of marine-based foods can promote better growth and coloration.

Zoas and Palys Coral Species

The world of Zoanthids and Palythoas is incredibly diverse, with hundreds of recognized color morphs and varieties.

Zoanthid Corals

Popular Zoanthid coral varieties include:

  • Utter Peace: Known for their distinctive purple centers surrounded by vibrant orange tentacles.
  • Fire and Ice: Features dramatic red centers with electric blue rings, making them a stunning centerpiece in any reef tank
  • Rastas: Displays a mesmerizing combination of green centers with red skirts and yellow rings
  • Purple People Eater: Shows off deep purple centers with neon green skirts
  • Armor of God: Exhibits metallic golden centers with bright blue rings
  • Blue Hornets: Presents striking blue centers surrounded by contrasting white rings

Palythoa Coral Subspecies

Palythoa subspecies tend to be larger and more robust than their Zoanthid cousins. Notable varieties include:

  • Gold Palys: Features metallic yellow coloration that seems to glow under proper lighting
  • Nuclear Green Palys: Shows incredibly bright, fluorescent green coloration that stands out dramatically
  • Candy Apple Red: Displays vibrant red polyps with subtle orange undertones
  • Jason Fox Nightmare: Known for their dark centers with contrasting colored rings
  • Miami Vice: Features a unique combination of pink and blue hues
  • Purple Death: Shows deep purple coloration with lighter tentacles

Each variety brings its own unique characteristics and care requirements, though all maintain the general hardiness of the species.

Sanctuary Aquatics' Experience with Zoanthids and Palythoas

At Sanctuary Aquatics, our expertise in coral care is grounded in scientific understanding and many years of practical hobby experience. Our carefully engineered systems provide optimal conditions for our diverse collection of Zoanthids and Palythoas, ensuring they thrive and display their best coloration.

 

Sanctuary Aquatics maintains multiple specialized systems for these corals, from quarantine facilities to display tanks, each designed to create the perfect environment for healthy growth and propagation.

 

Our team combines deep scientific knowledge with hands-on hobby experience to help you succeed with your coral journey! Whether you're a seasoned reef keeper or just starting out, we provide the guidance and resources needed to create a thriving coral ecosystem. Our expertly engineered systems and comprehensive understanding of coral care make us your ideal partner in establishing and maintaining your dream reef tank.

 

Connect with our team today to explore our selection of Zoanthids and Palythoas and receive personalized advice for your saltwater aquarium needs! Please browse all our saltwater coral species here.