Feeding Zoa's

[johnc43113]

What is the BEST way too feed. I know I may get mixed answers...what is the best method and diet? Does the zooplex stuff on the counter really work or should I use something else? What time is the best to feed?

Thanks

 

[650-IS350]

Most zoanthids dont feed are mostly photosynthetic nor have the prey catching ability that Palythoas, protopalys, parazoanthus, grandis etc have. The polyps that do display prey catching and feeding ability I feed them brine/mysis/cyclopeeze/soft sinking pellets.

For zoanthids I pretty much ensure the water quality is stable, good flow and strong lighting ( for the sybiotic algae they have inside to help them create food ) just like plants.

hope this helps

http://www.wetwebmedia.com/zoanthid.htm

 

[zoodood]

In my tank I've noticed an increase in growth from the zoas and pallys placed on the sand bottom. I attribute the good growth to food settling. At one end of the tank I have my pallys and on the other end I have my powerhead pushing water and nutrients along the bottom towards the pallys. The problem with this is the amount of light may not be as intense. I also agree with 650-IS350 in that the best way to keep them happy is by maintaining good water parameters.

 

[A. Grandis]

If you get the zoas to be used to food particles they will close and keep it. In nature they do that! People say they close because of reflection of something touching them, but they keep the food. If was reflection they wouldn't ingest the food.

Target feeding is ok in most cases. You can use invert liquid food, but do not overfeed because of algae problems. I would say if you get a good skimmer and want to feed a lot they will like it.

Some zoas come from "nutrient rich waters" while some others come from relatively "clean water". That's why people have problems with some species and others do wonderful in their system. It's relative. After a while you'll see what works best for your system and the organisms you have in it.

Feeding your fishes is a good way to keep zoas happy in this regard.

Grandis.

 

[tens8273]

Thank you for the info. Very helpful. I am using rod's food for sps to target feed my palys/zoo's.

 

[650-IS350]

fish poop, best coral food