Neon Bonkers Zoanthids

Neon Bonkers Zoanthids, Zoanthus sp., are colonial cnidarians that form clusters of individual button-like polyps connected by a common basal mat. This specimen displays a dramatic combination of deep reddish-brown to burnt-orange skirts surrounding brilliant fluorescent green oral discs and intensely glowing yellow-green centers. Pale turquoise-green radial markings add additional contrast across several of the polyps, producing the vivid, high-energy coloration reflected in the “Neon Bonkers” name. Zoanthus species contain symbiotic photosynthetic dinoflagellates that provide much of their nutritional energy, while their polyps can also capture fine suspended plankton and organic particles. Because coloration and external polyp morphology alone are not sufficient for dependable species-level identification within the genus, Zoanthus sp. is the most scientifically appropriate designation.

Care Guide: Zoanthus sp. is generally hardy and adaptable in an established reef aquarium. Provide low to moderate lighting with moderate, variable water movement. Flow should be strong enough to prevent debris from settling between the polyps without keeping them continuously closed. Place the colony on stable rockwork where it receives consistent lighting and circulation. Maintain stable temperature and salinity, and keep nitrate and phosphate measurable and reasonably consistent rather than excessively low. Most nutrition is supplied through photosynthesis, although fine suspended plankton and dissolved or particulate organic material may provide supplemental nutrition. Zoanthids can gradually spread across surrounding hard surfaces, so leave adequate room for colony expansion. When cutting or fragging zoanthids, use appropriate protective practices because some zoanthids may contain palytoxin or related compounds.