Sunrise Zoanthids Coral

Sunrise Zoanthids, Zoanthus sp., are colorful colonial zoanthids characterized by individual fleshy polyps connected through a spreading tissue mat. This WYSIWYG colony displays vivid yellow to fluorescent yellow-green centers surrounded by cool blue to blue-green radial coloration and deep red to burgundy tentacle skirts. Several polyps show additional orange-red highlights, creating a warm “sunrise” effect against the brighter yellow centers. The strong contrast among yellow-green, blue, red, and burgundy gives this colony a bright multicolor appearance. Zoanthus polyps contain symbiotic zooxanthellae that provide much of their nutritional requirements through photosynthesis while also being capable of capturing fine suspended organic material. Because species-level identification within Zoanthus cannot reliably be established from external appearance alone, Zoanthus sp. is the scientifically appropriate designation.

Care Guide: Zoanthus sp. generally performs well under low to moderate reef lighting with moderate, indirect water flow. Provide sufficient circulation to help prevent detritus from settling between the polyps while still allowing full extension. Place on stable rockwork with adequate room for the colony to spread. Maintain stable salinity, temperature, alkalinity, calcium, magnesium, nitrate, and phosphate. Zoanthids obtain much of their energy through photosynthesis but may also benefit from dissolved nutrients and occasional fine planktonic foods. Acclimate gradually when introducing the colony to stronger lighting. Zoanthids may contain palytoxin or related compounds, so appropriate eye and skin protection should be used when cutting, handling damaged tissue, or otherwise disturbing the colony.