zoa coloration factors

[A. Grandis]

Believe it or not I use my zoas' coloration as an indicator it is time to conduct a water change.

The first two weeks after one they are a different color, a very bright blue and purple. Around week 3 the purple starts to brown out and the blue starts to fade. By week 4 it is more pronounced.

The cycle begins again about 2-3 days after the WC.

Good observation!
I've noticed something that could also be related to water changes on some of the very small polyps, but never paid much attention to the dates and exactly what happens when the change occurs. I've noticed more darker color and in some cases the polyps were a little bigger than normal.
I've also noticed a great deal of change in colors when I offered some of the dry coral foods I've tried in the past. I never stopped target feeding them long enough to know that the water changes could have some definitive affect on colors.
That is a good observation, specially if you didn't change light bulbs and if you don't feed them very often.

Another possibility is the accumulation of organics in the system and the coloration of the water (yellowish), therefore showing different colors reflected from the zoas in some cases. The use of GAC would prevent the case.

Good topic!!!!!!! :beer:

Grandis.

 

[KafudaFish]

Thanks.

I thought about the reason(s) behind it after I posted and possibilities that came to mind are

physical: perhaps less particles in the water column meaning better light penitration
and less yellowing of the water (I forgot to change my carbon during the last WC though)

chemical: perhaps my water quality parameters are beginning to edge upwards and are having a negative effect on the colors but not the growth.


The light has been the same for a year now (have to check) and I spot feed once in a blue moon as well.

 

[A. Grandis]

Yep, nutrient concentration.

Grandis.

 

[mike r]

man now i just went and spot feed! lol