The vibrant, captivating world of reef aquarium keeping often centers around corals, and among the most sought-after are zoanthids, commonly called zoas. Within the vast and diverse world of zoanthids, a particular strain has captivated hobbyists: the "Little Shop of Horrors" zoa. This guide delves into the beauty, care, and unique characteristics of these fascinating corals.
What are "Little Shop of Horrors" Zoanthids?
"Little Shop of Horrors" zoanthids are a specific morph of zoanthids, prized for their striking and unusual coloration. They typically exhibit a deep, rich purple or burgundy base color, often contrasted with vibrant green polyps that extend outward like tiny tentacles. This striking color combination, reminiscent of the titular plant from the classic musical and film, lends the coral its memorable name. The exact shade can vary slightly between colonies, adding to their allure for collectors.
What Makes "Little Shop of Horrors" Zoas Unique?
While many zoanthid varieties boast impressive colors, the "Little Shop of Horrors" morph stands out due to its:
- Intense Color Contrast: The sharp contrast between the dark base and bright green polyps creates a visually stunning effect that’s hard to replicate.
- Robust Growth: Generally, this variety is known for its relatively fast growth rate compared to some other zoanthid morphs.
- Easy Propagation: Like many zoanthids, "Little Shop of Horrors" are relatively easy to propagate through fragmentation, allowing hobbyists to expand their colonies over time.
How to Care for "Little Shop of Horrors" Zoanthids
The care requirements for "Little Shop of Horrors" zoanthids are similar to those of other zoanthids, focusing on maintaining stable water parameters:
- Water Parameters: Maintain stable salinity (1.025-1.026 specific gravity), temperature (76-82°F), and pH (8.1-8.4). Regular water changes are crucial for overall reef health.
- Lighting: Moderate to bright lighting is ideal. Avoid overly intense lighting, which can bleach the corals.
- Flow: Moderate water flow is beneficial, preventing sediment buildup and ensuring adequate nutrient distribution.
- Placement: Position them in a location with suitable lighting and water flow, avoiding areas with excessive turbulence.
How to Propagate "Little Shop of Horrors" Zoanthids
Propagation is a relatively straightforward process:
- Identify a Healthy Polyp: Choose a polyp from a mature colony that exhibits vibrant colors and good health.
- Fragmentation: Carefully cut the polyp from the parent colony using a sharp, clean blade. Ensure you include a portion of the base mat.
- Attachment: Attach the fragment to a suitable substrate, such as a frag plug or a rock.
- Monitoring: Monitor the fragment for signs of growth and adjust water parameters as needed.
Are "Little Shop of Horrors" Zoanthids Difficult to Keep?
While not excessively demanding, consistent maintenance of water quality and appropriate lighting and flow are essential for successful long-term care.
What are the Potential Problems with Keeping "Little Shop of Horrors" Zoanthids?
Common problems include bleaching (due to high light intensity or rapid changes in water parameters), pest infestations (like flatworms or aiptasia), and insufficient growth (due to improper water conditions or insufficient nutrients).
Where Can I Buy "Little Shop of Horrors" Zoanthids?
These zoanthids can often be found from online coral vendors and local reef aquarium stores.
How Much Do "Little Shop of Horrors" Zoanthids Cost?
Pricing varies greatly depending on colony size, the vendor, and market demand.
By understanding the unique characteristics and care requirements of "Little Shop of Horrors" zoanthids, reef aquarium hobbyists can successfully cultivate these stunning corals and enhance the beauty of their underwater worlds. Remember consistent water quality is key to their health and vibrant coloration.
