What makes a PE?

[knockout]

I have loved zoanthids and palythoas since the day I started a saltwater tank, by far one of my favorite coral species, I am starting a small collection and could not help to wonder, what makes a PE? I am sure there is a pretty good explanation out there as to why these corals like to eat people!

 

[roshi719]

It is considered a PE polyp if it has a bright neon green mouth and has the watermelon-like stripes when the polyp is closed. These are traits that were first seen in the PPE polyps back in the day hence the entire group being referred to as PE polyps.

 

[gflat65]

Pic for example. All PE's I'm aware of (Zoanthus gigantus) have those traits.

 

[knockout]

great examples, thanks guys

 

[Tswifty]

All People Eaters are Zoanthus gigantus, but all Zoanthus gigantus are not People Eaters. Make sense...? LOL

Zoanthus gigantus are classified by the white lines/markings (striations) which are visible when the polyps close.

Then a neon green mouth on a Zoanthus Gigantus classifies it as a People Eater.

 

[gflat65]

All People Eaters are Zoanthus gigantus, but all Zoanthus gigantus are not People Eaters. Make sense...? LOL

Zoanthus gigantus are classified by the white lines/markings (striations) which are visible when the polyps close.

Then a neon green mouth on a Zoanthus Gigantus classifies it as a People Eater.

I've heard that before, but have never seen any pics of Z. gigantus that weren't PE's. Got any examples? If the green slit mouth and white striping are the defining characteristics of Z. gigantus, then they would be synonomous (or is that just the hobbiest adaptation to the description since it is easier for us to visually evaluate rather than DNA test?). I think someone else mentioned (several years ago) that all Z. gigantus don't have the PE characteristics, though. There have to be some pics, if so.

 

[Braves Fan]

Those in the first pic are awesome, you can't get better looking polyps than that.