Can Zoas get Scared?

RobertTheNurse · Jan 21, 2021

Bought this zoa frag just over a week ago, was a WYSIWYG for 15$. When this beauty opens its beyond gorgeous. Its in a high "traffic" area and I've noticed when the fish are being fed, or randomly throughout the day itll close for several hours, then open again, then close again. It's such a shame cuz its beyond beautiful when its open.

Its even grown a new polyp since I've had it (as you see in one pic). Should I move to a more shaded area? All other zoos in tank are happy, just this finniky one.

I was hesitant on posting this cuz I didn't take a picture of the polyp open. I can add one when it opens again, but it may not anymore today or may in a few hours.

Every coral I get gets same acclimation and dip procedure. Current params.

1.026
Temp 77.2
Ca 450
Alk 8.3
Nitrate 5-10 salifert (in between colours)
Phos -- 0 - 0.03

xxkenny90xx · Jan 21, 2021

If it grew a new head then I'd say it's fine and leave it be

ScottR · Jan 21, 2021

Zoas can be finicky when new. I’d just give it time. You can see the color through the closing which is typically a good sign.

ReeferBean · Jan 21, 2021

Most of your zoas look to be stretching so maybe it needs a little more light, not less.

RobertTheNurse · Jan 21, 2021

ReeferBean said:
Most of your zoas look to be stretching so maybe it needs a little more light, not less.

Yes. I got better lighting like 2-3 weeks ago. I was previously using a Fluval Sea Marine on my 65G. Now I have 2 AI Prime HDs. They've improved. This one in the pic, was already a little stretched looking. Im assuming why it was 15$? Here's hoping lol