Help identify coral for newbie
- Thread starter My1k
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Naso180!
Active Member
Zoanthids have smaller, shorter tentacles and usually come in a wide variety of bright colors. The oral disc of their polyps appears to be round. ... Palythoas are generally duller in color. The polyps usually come with longer, larger tentacles, and the oral disc on these polyps resembles a slit.( Copied from Google) I think it is palys. though
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My1k
Community Member
Can’t agree more but some article makes me worry…
Some zoanthidae contain palytoxin, a chemical that can cause serious illness or DEATH if you get trace quantities on your lips, eyes, or in a cut. Hawaiians used to use this toxin as a weapon of war. Be sure to wash hands after touching them. Dry your wet hands on a paper towel before heading to the sink and dispose of that paper towel immediately. Zoanthidae can also be fatal if eaten by other pets.
Some zoanthidae contain palytoxin, a chemical that can cause serious illness or DEATH if you get trace quantities on your lips, eyes, or in a cut. Hawaiians used to use this toxin as a weapon of war. Be sure to wash hands after touching them. Dry your wet hands on a paper towel before heading to the sink and dispose of that paper towel immediately. Zoanthidae can also be fatal if eaten by other pets.
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My1k
Community Member
One more article about Protopalythoa mutuki
Section: Corals - Soft: Group: Zoanthids: Species: Protopalythoa mutuki (Green Button Coral)
Marine Aquarium Library: Zoanthids, Family Zoanthidae, Protopalythoa mutuki
www.saltcorner.com
James_O
5000 Club Member
Looks like palys.
I always wash my hands after being in my fish tank anyway, as my hands are sticky.
As long as you don't go straight from touching your zoas/palys to touching your face, you should be fine.
Isopod80
Valuable Member
I agree about the palytoxin. Not only is it potentially lethal to humans, it can also nuke your tank if released. It's not worth keeping what is honestly an unattractive and prolific species especially for a beginner. While I can't say for certain from your original photo, it's possible you could have P. toxica. It's just not worth it.
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