ID'ing Palythoa vs. Zoanthus

Discussion in 'Soft Corals' started by BSatLaw, Jul 2, 2008.

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  1. BSatLaw

    BSatLaw Plankton

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    Hello. This is my first post on 3reef.com, but I can't find the answer elsewhere.

    I'm aware that the Palythoa variety/relative of Zoanthus sometimes contains a powerful neurotoxin that affects humans (and is very toxic). How can you distinguish a Palythoa from a Zoanthus? I would appreciate a citation if you have one!

    Thank you!
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    BSatLaw, Jul 2, 2008
    BSatLaw, Jul 2, 2008
    #1

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  2. geekdafied

    geekdafied 3reef Sponsor

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    Theres several different species with in each group. Then you gotta deal with the people who dont know better calling things paly's when they are in fact zoanthus. I'll just put up some common pics of each kind.

    Palythoa/Protopalythoa (common name: button polyps)
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    Zoanthid/Zoanthus
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    geekdafied, Jul 2, 2008
    geekdafied, Jul 2, 2008
    #2
  3. geekdafied

    geekdafied 3reef Sponsor

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    Just to add, there is 1,000,001 different color combinations and new color morphs all the time when it comes to them.
     
    geekdafied, Jul 2, 2008
    geekdafied, Jul 2, 2008
    #3
  4. antonym518

    antonym518 Purple Spiny Lobster

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    its really hard to tell. Just always wash your hands after handling them, or having your hand in the tank.
     
    antonym518, Jul 2, 2008
    antonym518, Jul 2, 2008
    #4