Orion Zoa Variant

Please Note:
We do our best to accurately identify each Zoa variety; however, slight variations in appearance may occur due to differences in lighting, tank conditions, and camera settings. Colors may look different under your specific aquarium lighting setup.

Zoanthid Coral (Zoas) – Care Guide & Description

Description:

Zoanthids, commonly known as Zoas, are one of the most popular and colorful soft corals in the reef aquarium hobby. With their vibrant hues and unique patterns, Zoas make a stunning addition to any reef tank—from beginner to advanced setups.

These colonial corals grow in mats of small polyps and come in an incredible variety of color morphs. Their hardy nature and fast growth make them ideal for fragging and trading within the reefing community.

Whether you're building a zoa garden or adding pops of color to your aquascape, Zoanthids are a reef keeper's favorite.

🛠 General Care:

• Lighting: Moderate to high (LED, T5, or metal halide). Coloration improves under higher PAR and actinic lighting.

• Flow: Moderate, with indirect current. Too much flow can prevent polyps from opening.

• Placement: Low to mid in the tank. Ensure stable rockwork or frag plugs.

• Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 76–80°F (24–27°C)

  • Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG

  • pH: 8.1–8.4

  • Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH

  • Calcium: 400–450 ppm

  • Magnesium: 1250–1350 ppm

• Feeding: Primarily photosynthetic, but benefit from occasional feeding with coral foods like reef roids or powdered plankton.

⚠️ Notes:

• Handle with care: Some zoanthids may contain palytoxin, a dangerous compound. Always wear gloves and eye protection when fragging or handling.

• Zoas are generally peaceful, but give them space to prevent overgrowth onto other corals.

✅ Ideal For:

• Beginner reefers

• Nano reef tanks

• Coral fragging and propagation

• Creating vibrant zoa gardens