Optimal lighting for Zoanthids

[midnight]

What's the best lighting setup for Zoanthids? I've got a 40-gallon tank with a basic LED strip, but they're not opening up like they used to. Params are stable, 78°F, salinity at 1.025. Should I crank up the blues or add more whites?

[zenzero]

Zoanthids thrive under moderate lighting. Too much intensity can cause them to close up. Aim for 100–150 PAR. What's your current light schedule? A 10-hour photoperiod with a ramp-up/down works best to mimic natural conditions.

[reeker0]

I've had luck with a 70/30 blue-to-white ratio. My Zoas pop under that combo. Also, check your flow—they like gentle movement. If they're not opening, might be worth testing for pests like nudis or flatworms.

[Cerulean]

Agree with the PAR range. I use AI Primes at 40% intensity, 12 inches above the water. My Zoas are on the sandbed and love it. How high are yours placed? Lower light might help if they're stressed.

[jason]

Zoanthids thrive under moderate lighting. Too much intensity can cause them to close up. Aim for 100–150 PAR. What's your current light schedule? A 10-hour photoperiod with a ramp-up/down works best to mimic natural conditions.

Spot on. I'd add that spectral quality matters too. Zoas respond well to UV and violet wavelengths. If your LED lacks those, consider upgrading.

[Bisco]

My tank's similar—40 breeder with Radion XR15s. I run 120 PAR at peak, mostly blues. Zoas are mid-level, fully extended. Maybe dial back the whites and see if they perk up. Also, how old are your bulbs? LEDs lose intensity over time.

[riverside]

Mine were sulking until I added a moonlight cycle. Now they're chill and open all day. Weird vibe, but it worked. Maybe try a softer transition between light phases?

[flume]

My tank's similar—40 breeder with Radion XR15s. I run 120 PAR at peak, mostly blues. Zoas are mid-level, fully extended. Maybe dial back the whites and see if they perk up. Also, how old are your bulbs? LEDs lose intensity over time.

Yep, LEDs degrade after 18–24 months. If yours are older, that could explain the lackluster response. Swap 'em out or bump the intensity to compensate.

[midnight]

Thanks for the tips, everyone. I'll tweak the blues and check for pests. Lights are about a year old, so maybe time for an upgrade.

[zenzero]

Keep us posted. If they don't improve, test your alkalinity too. Zoas can be finicky about swings. Stable alk around 8–9 dKH is ideal.