Spoanthids

[Fliger]

OK so I made that up, but check out this orange sponge that is lined with zoanthids. Its cool the way the way the orange sponge grows like a tree and the zoas form in a line, but never cross. It looks just like candy, and is so artful it doesn't even look real. To be honest I'm not even 100% sure they are zoas, but they sure look just like them.

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/dfliger/Various%20LPS/IMG_6062-1.jpg

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/dfliger/Various%20LPS/IMG_6063.jpg

When I first got it

http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l134/dfliger/Various%20LPS/IMG_6020.jpg

I'll have to get a pick when they aren't out. Its really cool!

[Fliger]

Got an email that this might be some sort of gorgonian, so maybe I posted in the wrong forum. :) Sorry!

[otiso777]

No they're a zoanthus species. They're parasitic and need the sponge to survive. Also they are not photosynthetic and need to be fed. How long have you had them? They usually do not do well in captivity.

[Fliger]

Thanks, its been a couple months. So far they are showing no sign of weakness but I know how that goes. I am keeping them it kind of half laying in the sandbed and I feed quite a bit of phyto, and zooplankton.

Do you know which usually dies off - the sponge or the zoas? I heard that "Sponge Power" by KZ is really good for sponges. I know, stupid name but I read quite a bit of good stuff about it. Perhaps if its the sponge that doesn't do well - this will help?

Thanks again. I'll keep this thread updated!

[gflat65]

Zoanthus swiftus, I think. Nice stuff. I've been keeping a 13" stick polyp alive for about 6 months now. Those are much more fun to look at, though:). Nonphotosynthetics are kinda cool.