Mixed Zoanthid Polyp Garden

Description

• Scientific Name: Zoanthus spp. (also includes Palythoa spp. and other genera)

• Common Names: Zoas, Zoanthids, Zoas polyps, Button polyps, Palys (Palythoa)

• Family: Zoanthidae

• Origin: Indo-Pacific, Caribbean, and various tropical reef areas

• Appearance:

  • Small, soft polyps with a central mouth surrounded by tentacles

  • Grow in mats or colonies, often carpeting rock surfaces
    

• Structure: Soft-bodied, with or without a thin mat-like base (coenenchyme)

Care Requirements

Lighting

• Moderate to High PAR (100–250), depending on the variety

• Some morphs prefer more intense lighting for color vibrancy, while others fade or "melt" under too much light

• Acclimate carefully when moving them to brighter areas

Water Flow

• Moderate flow

• Enough to keep detritus off and encourage polyp extension, but not too strong—it can cause polyps to stay closed

• Random, alternating flow is ideal

Placement

• Very versatile—can be placed on rockwork, plugs, frag racks, or even sand (temporarily)

• Avoid placing near aggressive corals (Zoas are peaceful but can be overrun or stung)

• Great for filling in low-flow areas or creating a colorful "Zoa garden"

Maintenance & Growth

• Fast growers in good conditions—can spread quickly over rocks

• Keep an eye on them, as they can overgrow nearby corals or structures

• Dip all new colonies—Zoas can carry pests like:

  • Nudibranchs

  • Sundial snails

  • Zoanthid-eating spiders

Safety Warning

• Some Zoas and Palys produce palytoxin, one of the most toxic non-protein substances known.

• Never frag, scrub, or handle Zoanthids without gloves and eye protection.

• Avoid boiling or using hot water when cleaning rocks with Zoas—the fumes can be deadly.

Fun Facts

• Can change colors slightly depending on light spectrum and nutrient levels

• Some polyps fluoresce under actinic/blue lights—amazing for reef tank glow

• You can frag them easily with a scalpel or by cutting the rock around them

Pro Tips

• For a thriving Zoa garden:

  • Start on a frag rack or isolated rock

  • Keep nitrates/phosphates non-zero—Zoas can melt in ultra-low nutrient systems

  • Don't glue them too tightly—give the mat room to spread

• If polyps are closed for days, check for pests or high flow/light issues