What are Zoas?

Zoanthids, or zoas for short, is a type of colonial marine invertebrate belonging to the order of cnidarians commonly found in coral reefs, the deep sea and many other marine environments around the world. These corals are popular in reef aquariums due to their vibrant colors, endless patterns, fast growth, and relatively easy care. Unlike stony corals, zoanthids lack a calcium carbonate skeleton and instead form mat-like colonies that encrust rocks and other surfaces. They obtain energy through photosynthesis via symbiotic zooxanthellae and can also capture plankton. Some species contain palytoxins, making proper handling important.