Saltwater Aquarium Blog

Zoanthids

Zoanthids

 

 

Zoanthids, also called button polyps or colonial anemones, are a hardy and diverse Order of coral that are suitable for beginner, intermediate and advanced aquarists.  There are three general growth forms associated with this order. Some species, like the ones shown above have freely growing separate polyps. Other species have  polyps that are joined loosely at the base by a sliver of tissue called a stolon, whereas the third growth form of zoanthids have polyps that are actually integrated deep into a fleshy tissue called the coenchyme. 

The majority of zoanthids possess photosynthetic zooxanthellae and are therefore dependent on moderate to strong light.  Many species exhibit a tactile feeding response, similar to a true anemone and are capable of actively capturing prey.  For fastest growth of these coral, it is recommended that you feed them periodically with an appropriately sized food, although feeding is not usually required. 

Saltwater Aquarium Blog Tip: Several species of zoanthids produce a toxic chemical, called palytoxin, and so individual specimens should be handled with extreme care.  Also, as a general rule, the more brightly colored the individual, the more intense the lighting they require. Be sure to investigate you species/strain specifically, and try to understand the aquarium conditions your specimen is used to, but in general the brighter colored specimens are grown out at higher intensity lighting. Also remember that the color may change based on the conditions of your display tank.

Advanced Aquarist Note: Some of the more rare species, like the Sun Coral or Sun Polyps are non-photosynthetic in nature and are entirely dependent on prey capture for sustenance.  They tend to be shy species which only feed at night. While they are beautiful, rare and pretty cool—they are not for the casual hobbyist, as they will require a significant amount of TLC, so buyer beware.

 

 

 

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