Blow Pop Zoas Coral Frag

Blow Pop Zoanthid Coral Frag

Scientific Name: Zoanthus sp.
Common Name: Blow Pop Zoa
Coral Type: Soft Coral (Zoanthid)

Description

The Blow Pop Zoanthid is a vibrant and eye-catching zoa known for its candy-like coloration and high contrast patterning. Typically featuring a bright, glowing center surrounded by a bold skirt, this zoa really pops under blue lighting and adds instant visual impact to any reef aquarium. Its hardy nature and steady growth make it a favorite among both beginner and advanced reef keepers.

Growth & Form

Blow Pop Zoas grow as small individual polyps connected by a mat (coenenchyme). Under stable conditions, they spread gradually across frag plugs and rockwork, forming colorful colonies over time. Growth rate is moderate and improves with consistent feeding and stable parameters.

Coloration

Coloration can vary slightly depending on lighting and tank conditions, but most Blow Pop Zoas display:

• Bright neon centers (often pink, orange, or yellow)

• High-contrast outer rings

• Colorful skirts that may show hints of green, blue, or purple
  Best coloration is achieved under strong blue/actinic lighting.

Temperament

Peaceful and reef safe. Zoanthids do not possess long sweeper tentacles, but they can slowly overgrow nearby corals if placed too closely. Allow space around the frag for natural spreading.

Tank Size

Suitable for nano tanks and larger reef systems alike. Stable water parameters are more important than tank size.

Placement

• Low to mid-level in the aquarium

• Can be placed on frag racks, isolated rocks, or lower rockwork

• Avoid placing directly next to aggressive corals

Lighting Requirements

• Low to moderate lighting

• Thrives under LED, T5, or hybrid lighting

• Strong blue spectrum enhances fluorescence and coloration
  Acclimate slowly to higher light to prevent polyp retraction or bleaching.

Flow Requirements

• Low to moderate flow

• Enough movement to keep debris off polyps

• Avoid strong direct flow, which may cause polyps to stay closed

Diet & Feeding

Zoanthids primarily rely on photosynthesis but benefit from occasional feeding.

• Accepts fine particulate foods such as reef roids, coral powders, and micro-plankton

• Target feeding 1–2 times per week can encourage faster growth and stronger coloration

Reef Compatibility

• Reef Safe: Yes

• Safe with fish, invertebrates, and most corals

• May compete for space over time

Care Level

Easy to Moderate
Blow Pop Zoas are hardy once established and tolerant of minor parameter swings, making them a great choice for newer hobbyists while still appealing to collectors.

Additional Notes

• Always handle zoanthids with care and proper protection, as some species may contain palytoxin

• Dip before placing in your display to prevent pests

• Color intensity may vary slightly depending on lighting and water conditions