Colony Polyp, Joker

Why so serious when spectacular maricultured Zoanthid color morphs are available? The Joker Colony Polyp is no laughing matter when it comes to intense coloration. The deep, Indigo blue coloration of each plate is contrasted with Kelly green tentacles for a moody color combo that packs a visual punch. The repeating, colonial nature of the Joker Colony Polyp enhances this effect to animate any reef aquarium with wildly unexpected color and pattern.

The Joker Colony Polyp is a spectacular color variety of Zoanthus Colony Polyp Corals (also known as Sea Mats, or Button Polyps). While most Zoanthus Colony Polyp Corals are commonly green in coloration, there are prized varieties demonstrating uncommon beauty with bright, showy coloration. As colonial animals, the Joker Colony Polyp is made up of multiple individual polyps attached to a piece of live rock.

The Joker Colony Polyp has the ability to sting other polyps or corals. While the sting is not strong, be sure to provide sufficient space between the Joker Colony Polyp and other corals because of its semi-aggressive temperament and potential to crowd out neighbors.

Similar to other Zoanthus Colony Polyp Corals, the Joker Colony Polyp is easy to maintain, making it a good choice for beginner reef aquarists. The Joker Colony Polyp requires moderate to high light levels combined with medium water movement within the aquarium. For continued good health, the Joker Colony Polyp will also require the addition of iodine and other trace elements.

Under ideal conditions, the Joker Colony Polyp will multiple without difficulty in home reef aquariums by budding (splitting off a portion of their base or mouth) to increase the size of the colony. The Joker Colony Polyp contains the symbiotic algae zooxanthellae which satisfies almost all of its nutritional requirements. If the lighting is not optimal, the Joker Colony Polyp should be fed micro-plankton or baby brine shrimp.

It is common to receive a rock that is not completely covered in polyps. However, under the right conditions, they will quickly spread across this and surrounding rocks in the aquarium.

Approximate Purchase Size: 2" to 3-1/2"