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Palythoa
Palythoa grandis
Animalia›Cnidaria›Anthozoa›Sphenopidae
📍 Widespread tropical reefs
Large-polyped cousins of Zoanthids — drab tan-brown in the wild but cultivated morphs include greens, yellows, and reds. Hardy and fast-spreading. Contain palytoxin — handle with gloves. Excellent beginner coral.
Tank Mates
Reef-safe fish that won't nip or disturb polyps; commonly kept with Palythoa
Reef-safe invertebrate that benefits the system without harming corals
Peaceful algae grazer that won't damage coral tissue or rockwork
Reef-safe scavenger; generally safe but may occasionally pick at polyps if hungry
Reef-safe algae eater; may occasionally nip at polyps but generally compatible
Common Diseases
Palytoxin Poisoning (Human)
Skin irritation, respiratory issues, or systemic effects from handling without gloves
Always wear nitrile gloves when handling or fragging; rinse thoroughly with fresh water if exposure occurs; seek medical attention for severe symptoms
Coral Bleaching
Polyps lose color and appear pale or white; reduced expansion and feeding
Reduce light intensity gradually, check water parameters (temperature, salinity, nutrients), ensure adequate water flow, and maintain stable conditions
Bacterial Infection
Tissue recession, slime coating on polyps, foul odor, or visible lesions
Perform 25% water change, improve water quality and flow, consider antibiotic treatment if severe, and isolate affected coral if possible
Predation by Nudibranchs or Flatworms
Polyps fail to expand, visible tissue damage, or small organisms on coral surface
Inspect rockwork carefully, remove predators manually with tweezers, dip coral in freshwater or coral dip solution, and quarantine if needed
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Tips from the community 💡
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Quick Facts
- flow
- low to medium
- placement
- anywhere on rockwork
- difficulty
- beginner-friendly
- lightLevel
- low to high