Questions About Zoa's

Discussion in 'Soft Corals' started by lunatik_69, Jan 30, 2008.

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  1. lunatik_69

    lunatik_69 Giant Squid

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    I've been noticing that most of my zoas are not as colorful as before. I have some brown with green in the middle, now its only brown. Lite brown with orange in the middle and now only brown. My other ones are still the same colors but not as opened as before. I have checked my parameters and everything checks out. The only factors that come to mind is my skimmer is working too good or my lights need replacing. My lights were replaced on 07.15.07, both MH and actinics. Has anyone had the same problem?
     
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  3. lunatik_69

    lunatik_69 Giant Squid

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  4. BaxterS80

    BaxterS80 Pajama Cardinal

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    Hey Lunatik, was it a gradual change or did the coloration change over a period of time? I am thinking that if it was over a period of time it might be the lights? Also, mine tend to like a lot of flow....8)
     
  5. lunatik_69

    lunatik_69 Giant Squid

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    Over time but like 3-4 weeks or so. They get plenty of flow. I cant think of anything else.
     
  6. geekdafied

    geekdafied 3reef Sponsor

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    Your lights are not intense enough for them to maintain color. The bright colors you see in them are their defense against intense UV rays. Zoa's need high light, high flow and a lil dirty water to thrive.
     
  7. lunatik_69

    lunatik_69 Giant Squid

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    So....change ALL the lights(MH and Actinics)? Maybe thats why my clam isnt coming out as much too.
     
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  9. geekdafied

    geekdafied 3reef Sponsor

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    what kind of lights are you using? How old are the ballasts?
     
  10. lunatik_69

    lunatik_69 Giant Squid

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    I have 2-250 watts HQI DE 20000k MH bulbs and 2-96watt actinics. The unit was bought in Dec. of 2006
     
  11. ReefSparky

    ReefSparky Super Moderator

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    As you know, I obtained my zoo's about 24 hours ago, and so far they're doing very well! (Which is kinda like saying my 3 week old truck looks great!! LOL But as the weeks go by I'll stop by this thread and keep you updated. I got a good photo showing their color. I'll post another in a week or two. I have 5-T5s atop my 55 gal.
     
  12. BaxterS80

    BaxterS80 Pajama Cardinal

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    Hey Lunatik,
    Try moving your zoas further up in your tank. How high is your tank? I do agree that it is probably the lights..But, one important things that a lot of people don't realize is that they like a lot of flow...8)