Rose Peony Zoanthids

Rose Peony Zoanthids, Zoanthus sp., are colonial cnidarians that form clusters of individual button-like polyps connected by a common basal mat. This specimen displays broad rose-red to burgundy oral discs with pale blue-green centers, bright yellow-green mouths, and skirts marked with alternating green and reddish bands. The combination of soft pastel centers, vivid radial striping, and rounded skirts gives the colony a layered floral appearance reflected in the “Rose Peony” 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 external coloration and polyp morphology alone are not sufficient for dependable species-level identification, 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 collecting between the polyps without keeping them continuously closed. Place the colony on stable rockwork where it receives consistent light 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 organic material may provide supplemental nutrition. Zoanthids can gradually spread across neighboring hard surfaces, so leave room for colony expansion. When cutting or fragging zoanthids, use appropriate protective practices because some zoanthids may contain palytoxin or related compounds.