The vibrant world of reef aquariums is constantly evolving, with new and exciting coral species captivating hobbyists. Among the most sought-after are zoanthids, and within that captivating category, the "Little Shop of Horrors" zoanthid stands out. Its unique coloration and captivating patterns make it a prized possession for many reef tank enthusiasts. This guide dives deep into the world of Little Shop of Horrors zoas, covering care, propagation, and everything in between.
What are Little Shop of Horrors Zoanthids?
Little Shop of Horrors zoanthids, often simply called "LSOH Zoas," are a captivating variety known for their striking coloration. They typically exhibit a base color ranging from a deep, rich green to a lighter, almost chartreuse hue. But the real magic lies in the polyps themselves. Each polyp displays a vibrant, almost neon, green center, often with hints of other colors swirling around it, creating a visually stunning contrast. These vibrant green centers are often surrounded by a ring of a darker shade, creating a "bullseye" effect. The overall look is reminiscent of the carnivorous plant from the cult classic film, Little Shop of Horrors, hence the name.
How to Care for Little Shop of Horrors Zoanthids
Caring for LSOH zoanthids is similar to caring for other zoanthids, but attention to detail is crucial for optimal growth and coloration. Here's a breakdown:
Water Parameters:
- Temperature: Maintain a stable temperature between 72-78°F (22-26°C). Fluctuations should be minimal.
- Salinity: A salinity of 1.025 to 1.026 is ideal. Consistent salinity is key.
- pH: Aim for a pH between 8.1 and 8.4.
- Alkalinity: Maintain alkalinity levels between 8-11 dKH.
- Calcium: Calcium levels should be around 400-450 ppm.
- Magnesium: Magnesium levels should be around 1250-1350 ppm. Maintaining proper magnesium levels is particularly important for coral growth and skeletal development.
Regular water changes (around 10% weekly) help maintain these parameters and remove waste products.
Lighting:
LSOH zoanthids thrive under moderate to high lighting. Too little light will result in poor coloration and slow growth, while too much light can cause bleaching. Experimentation to find the sweet spot for your specific setup is essential. LED lighting is generally preferred for its controllability.
Water Flow:
Moderate water flow is beneficial. Avoid placing them in areas with extremely high flow, which can damage the delicate polyps. A gentle current that helps keep debris away is ideal.
Placement in the Reef Tank:
Consider placing them in an area with indirect sunlight or diffused lighting to avoid harsh direct light.
Propagating Little Shop of Horrors Zoanthids
Propagating LSOH zoanthids is relatively straightforward. The most common method is fragmentation. This involves carefully cutting a piece of the zoanthid colony, ensuring each fragment contains several polyps. Allow the fragments to heal before attaching them to a new substrate.
What Makes Little Shop of Horrors Zoanthids Unique?
Their intense, vibrant green coloration and the distinctive "bullseye" pattern of their polyps set them apart. This combination is highly sought after by coral enthusiasts.
Are Little Shop of Horrors Zoanthids Difficult to Keep?
While not notoriously difficult, consistent maintenance of ideal water parameters and appropriate lighting is crucial for their success. Beginners should be prepared to monitor their parameters closely.
Where Can I Buy Little Shop of Horrors Zoanthids?
Little Shop of Horrors zoanthids can be found from various online and local reef aquarium retailers. Be sure to purchase from reputable sources to ensure the health and authenticity of your corals.
What is the Best Way to Acclimate Little Shop of Horrors Zoanthids?
Slow acclimation is key. Gradually introduce the zoanthids to your tank's water parameters over several hours to minimize stress.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of caring for and appreciating Little Shop of Horrors zoanthids. Remember, consistent monitoring and maintenance are crucial for the long-term health and vibrancy of these stunning corals. Enjoy the beauty they bring to your reef aquarium!
