Zoanthids, Protopalys, Palythoa?

[Xtasia]

hey I need to know the difference between the following words. I've seen these words used interchangably to describe Zoanthids and i'm confused!


Sand polyps, Button Polyps, Zoanthids, Protopalys, Palthoa..

 

[gflat65]

This is the best article I have seen that explains what we know (think) right now.
http://www.advancedaquarist.com/issues/feb2003/invert.htm

Zoas and protopalys are similar, but proto's are much larger. They (zoas and proto's) can spready from a mat, but have longer coenenchyme (stalks). Palythoa are a mat with openings for mouths. There can be a coenenchmye, but they are usually short and are imbedded in the mat. the article shows some good pics and gives good info.

This might make a good sticky, if everyone agrees the info is sound.

 

[gflat65]

BTW, button polyps where i'm from usually refer to protopalythoa's, but that may be different in other areas. Not sure about sand polyps, though.