Parazoanthus – Yellow Polyps
Parazoanthus is a striking and easily recognizable genus of button polyps, commonly known as Yellow Polyps in English. It forms dense coral colonies of bright yellow polyps that open during the day, creating a vibrant and natural look in a reef aquarium. Thanks to its color, Parazoanthus often provides a striking contrast among rock structures and other corals.
In a reef aquarium, Parazoanthus is generally a quite hardy and adaptable coral that thrives in moderate lighting and consistent flow. The polyps are small but clearly distinct, and the colony often grows by spreading across rock surfaces or frag plugs.
Under good conditions, Parazoanthus can grow quite rapidly and form extensive mats. It is well-suited for mixed reef aquariums alongside fish, other soft corals, and most LPS corals.
Features
- bright yellow polyps that open during the day
- forms dense coral colonies on rock surfaces
- quite hardy and adaptable coral
- well-suited for mixed reef aquariums
- can spread and grow into extensive patches under good conditions
Care Requirements
| Feature |
Recommendation |
| Difficulty Level |
easy – moderate |
| Lighting |
low – moderate |
| Flow |
moderate |
| Placement in Aquarium |
lower – middle |
| Growth Rate |
moderate – fast |
Good to Know
Parazoanthus often grows as a mat on rock surfaces and can spread over a wider area in the aquarium over time. If necessary, growth can be managed by restricting the colony's location or by moving frag pieces.
Suitability
- well-suited for reef aquariums
- generally compatible with fish and invertebrates
- a good choice for beginners as well