{"product_id":"zoanthid-fragment-45","title":"Zoanthid Fragment","description":"\u003cp\u003eZoanthids are a classic soft coral, well known to almost every reef keeper. They are colonial polyps that grow together as a mat, often spreading over live rock. Their diversity in colour and pattern is extensive, with new variations still being documented. In the hobby, they are often referred to simply as \"zoas\".\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese polyps are characterized by a smooth, flat oral disc surrounded by a ring of tentacles. They are connected at the base by a fleshy tissue called the coenenchyme. During the day, the polyps open to gather light, and at night, they may retract into tight buds. The colouration of zoanthids is highly variable, ranging from simple greens and browns to multi-coloured patterns with contrasting centres and skirts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor care, zoanthids are quite adaptable. They thrive under a wide range of lighting, from lower PAR around 75 up to 250, but should be acclimated to higher light levels slowly to prevent bleaching. Moderate, indirect water flow is ideal to keep the polyps clean without preventing them from opening fully. While they get most of their energy from photosynthesis, they can benefit from occasional feeding with plankton or other fine particle coral foods. Zoanthids can contain palytoxin, so it's important to wear gloves and eye protection when handling them out of water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn a home reef, zoanthids are excellent for adding colour to bare rockwork or creating a \"zoa garden\" on the sandbed. They generally have a peaceful temperament but can overgrow slower-moving neighbours, so it's wise to give them some space to spread. With stable water parameters and suitable placement, a small fragment can grow into a dense, colourful colony over time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a WYSIWYG item, so you'll receive the exact specimen pictured.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Eastern Marine Aquariums","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42403876175927,"sku":"EMA-SOF-20260821-YTN6","price":55.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1849\/1739\/files\/e79f596b-f8b2-4d85-9a02-a57da9d3277d-_MG_4636.png?v=1787345926","url":"https:\/\/easternmarineaquariums.co.nz\/products\/zoanthid-fragment-45","provider":"EasternMarine Aquariums","version":"1.0","type":"link"}