Green Agave Zoa

Zoanthid Coral (Zoas) – Description & Care

Common Name: Zoanthid Coral, Zoas
Scientific Name: Zoanthus spp.
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Lighting: Low to High (PAR 50–200)
Water Flow: Low to Moderate
Placement: Anywhere – adapt well to various positions
Origin: Indo-Pacific, Caribbean, Indo-Pacific reefs

🔎 Description:

Zoanthids are vibrant colonial soft corals known for their wide array of color morphs, often forming dense, mat-like colonies. With striking hues ranging from neon green, orange, and purple to multicolored varieties, Zoas are a favorite among hobbyists for their easy care and visual appeal. Each polyp resembles a miniature flower, giving aquariums a garden-like look.

🧪 Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 24–27°C (75–80°F)

• Salinity: 1.024–1.026

• pH: 8.1–8.4

• Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH

• Calcium: 400–450 ppm

• Magnesium: 1250–1350 ppm

• Nitrates: <10 ppm

• Phosphates: <0.05 ppm

🛠️ Care Tips:

• Lighting: Zoas are adaptable—can thrive under both low and high light. Color intensity often improves under higher PAR (but always acclimate slowly).

• Flow: Prefer low to moderate flow—strong flow may cause them to stay closed or detach.

• Feeding: While mostly photosynthetic, they benefit from occasional feedings with coral foods like reef roids or powdered plankton.

• Propagation: Very easy to frag—can be split from the colony and glued to frag plugs or rock.

• Pest Alert: Watch for nudibranchs, zoa-eating spiders, and sundial snails. Regular dips before adding to your tank are recommended.

• Toxicity Warning: Some species may contain palytoxin, a highly potent toxin. Always wear gloves and eye protection when handling.

✅ Ideal For:

• Beginner to advanced reefers

• Nano tanks, mixed reefs, and color-themed aquascapes

• Hobbyists looking for fast growth and colorful variety