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News & Reviews Article
| Title |
In praise of Zoas by Colin Foord |
| Author |
Scott Gregory
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| Last Updated |
2014-11-25
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| Abstract |
Article review by Scott Gregory
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In praise of Zoas by Colin Foord
Coral The Reef & Marine Aquarium Magazine, Vol 7 #3 pg. 46
Reviewer: Scott Gregory
Zoanthids: Colonizing in shallow waters on every tropical coastline around the world. Historically referred to as �colonial anemonies�, taxinomically speaking they belong to their own order Zoanthidea. They live in large colonies conjoined by a rubbery shared tissue called a coenychyme. This gives them their common name �Sea Mat�. The Zoanthids appear in fluorescent colors that span the spectrum, and frequently have 2-3 contrasting colors in any given polyp.
In the aquarium, Zoanthids grow as tightly matted polyps and typically prefer heavier wave action. They can be placed higher in the tank or in heavier flow so that they benefit from greater light and increased flow. The long stalked polyps are most likely from deeper waters with less light and wave action. Generally speaking, mid level placement is a good place to start. If the colors loose intensity they are not getting enough light. A T5 light fixture should give you an intense enough light to be successful with the Zoas. The use of powerheads to increase flow, such as the Sicce Voyager will also benefit the growth of the Zoas.
The Zoanthids do not rely significantly upon the capture of prey as a means of nutrition; most of their energy requirements come from the photosynthetic Zooxanthellea that live in their tissue. However, they have been known to proliferate in �dirtier� coastal waters where dissolved and particulate organic matter is present. The broadcast feeding of a Reef Snow, Phyto-Plex or Cycolpeze will most likely benefit your Zoanthids.
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