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why won't my coral polyps open?
Posted: Sat May 17, 2025 8:41 am
by eagle
My Zoanthids haven't opened in three days. Tank is a 40-gallon with two Clowns, parameters are 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 10 nitrate, salinity at 1.025. Lighting is AI Prime running 8 hours, no recent changes. Any ideas?
Re: why won't my coral polyps open?
Posted: Sat May 17, 2025 10:18 am
by bronx
First, check for pests like nudibranchs or spiders. They're sneaky and can stress Zoas. Also, how's flow? Too much direct current can keep them closed. Try adjusting your powerhead.
Re: why won't my coral polyps open?
Posted: Sat May 17, 2025 11:49 am
by falconry9
Yo, eagle, what's your temp at? Sometimes a tiny dip below 76°F can mess with 'em. Also, any new fish or coral added lately? Could be a weird vibe in the tank.
Re: why won't my coral polyps open?
Posted: Sat May 17, 2025 1:30 pm
by Vultaen
falconry9 wrote: ↑Sat May 17, 2025 11:49 am
Yo, eagle, what's your temp at? Sometimes a tiny dip below 76°F can mess with 'em. Also, any new fish or coral added lately? Could be a weird vibe in the tank.
Temperature fluctuations are critical. Stable 78°F is ideal. Also, test alkalinity—Zoas hate swings. Aim for 8–9 dKH.
Re: why won't my coral polyps open?
Posted: Sat May 17, 2025 3:24 pm
by JudgeRay
Had this happen when my skimmer went nuts and stripped organics. If you're running carbon or UV, cut it for a day. Sometimes they just need a chill period.
Re: why won't my coral polyps open?
Posted: Sat May 17, 2025 5:09 pm
by otterfly
Lol, my Zoas once stayed closed for a week just 'cause I moved a rock. Drama queens! But yeah, check if they're getting enough light. Maybe shift 'em higher?
Re: why won't my coral polyps open?
Posted: Sat May 17, 2025 5:14 pm
by eagle
Thanks, all. Temp's steady at 78°F, no new additions. I'll check for pests and tweak flow. Alkalinity was 7.5 last test—gonna bump it slowly.
Re: why won't my coral polyps open?
Posted: Sat May 17, 2025 6:36 pm
by bronx
eagle wrote: ↑Sat May 17, 2025 5:14 pm
Thanks, all. Temp's steady at 78°F, no new additions. I'll check for pests and tweak flow. Alkalinity was 7.5 last test—gonna bump it slowly.
Good call. Use baking soda mixed with RODI for alk adjustments. Sudden changes freak them out.
Re: why won't my coral polyps open?
Posted: Sat May 17, 2025 8:27 pm
by wildfoxer
Mine did this when phosphates spiked. You running GFO? Might be worth a check.
Re: why won't my coral polyps open?
Posted: Sat May 17, 2025 9:17 pm
by dorvil9
Aye, eagle, how old's your salt mix? Sometimes stale salt messes with trace elements. Just a thought.