Zoanthids Combo

Zoanthids Combo, Zoanthus spp., is a mixed WYSIWYG grouping of several distinct zoanthid color morphs growing together on a single base. This specimen features a dominant group of vivid red to crimson polyps with bright cream-speckled centers, along with a second group displaying yellow-green centers, brown to burgundy oral discs, and green-yellow skirts. The contrasting colors and different polyp forms create a varied multicolor display while retaining the colonial growth habit typical of Zoanthus. Individual polyps are connected by living tissue and can gradually spread across neighboring substrate as the colony grows. Because this piece contains multiple color morphs and species-level identification cannot be confirmed from appearance alone, Zoanthus spp. is the most scientifically appropriate designation.

Care Guide: Zoanthus spp. generally perform well under low to moderate reef lighting, although established colonies can tolerate moderately strong lighting when acclimated gradually. Provide low to moderate, variable water movement to keep debris from settling between the polyps without preventing full extension. Place on stable rockwork with room for the different morphs to spread. Maintain stable temperature and salinity along with consistent alkalinity, calcium, magnesium, nitrate, and phosphate. Most nutrition is supplied through photosynthesis, though very fine suspended foods may provide supplemental nutrition. Zoanthids can contain palytoxin or related compounds, so gloves and eye protection are recommended when handling or fragging, and zoanthid-covered rock should never be boiled or exposed to hot water or steam.