Laura Smith
Zoas and mushrooms are both coral species that compete for space in a reef tank. While they don't usually sting each other, they can engage in chemical warfare, with some coral releasing toxins to damage other coral that gets too close. This can result in one type of coral killing off the other in a battle for space. Zoas can also be affected by fungus, which can be treated with Furan-2.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Competition for space | Mushrooms and zoas compete for space and may release toxins to damage one another |
| Light intensity | Zoas and mushrooms may distort or close up under high light intensity |
| Water contamination | Contaminated water can cause zoas to develop a white film and stop opening |
| Fungus | Zoas are susceptible to fungus, which can be treated with Furan-2 |
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Competition for space
Mushrooms have been known to cover zoas, leading to the zoas closing up and not opening fully. This could be due to the mushroom releasing toxins or simply the result of the mushroom taking up space and resources that the zoas need to thrive. In some cases, the mushroom may eventually kill off the zoas if they are unable to move away or find other suitable areas to grow.
On the other hand, zoas can also expand and split, taking over their area and potentially crowding out mushrooms or other nearby organisms. It is a constant battle for dominance, with both organisms trying to establish their territory. The outcome of this competition for space can vary depending on the specific conditions of the tank and the behaviours of the individual organisms involved.
Some reef tank owners choose to intervene and move either the mushrooms or the zoas to give them more space and prevent them from harming each other. However, others prefer to let nature take its course and allow the organisms to figure out their own space without human interference. Ultimately, the decision to intervene or not depends on the specific circumstances and the preferences of the tank owner.
In addition to space, lighting conditions can also play a role in the competition between zoas and mushrooms. Both organisms may react to lighting intensity and duration, with some reporting distorted shapes under certain lighting conditions. Adjusting lighting settings can be a way to influence the behaviour and growth of zoas and mushrooms, potentially reducing their competition for space.
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Allelopathy
In the case of zoas and mushrooms, there have been observations of mushrooms covering zoas and affecting their ability to open fully. Some individuals have suggested relocating either the mushroom or the zoas to give them their own space. However, others advise against moving coral, as it can cause more harm than good. Instead, they suggest letting the corals figure out their own space, as they will compete for real estate and may eventually figure out a way to coexist.
Chemical warfare has been proposed as a possible explanation for the interactions between mushrooms and zoas. Some individuals have noticed that their zoas and mushrooms distort for a few hours after the lights in their tank hit near-peak intensity, and then relax and open wide midway through the light cycle. This observation suggests that light intensity may play a role in the chemical interactions between mushrooms and zoas.
To maintain a healthy environment and prevent the spread of potential infections, it is important to regularly check the water parameters and perform interventions when necessary. For example, in the case of a contaminated zoa frag introducing fungus into a tank, it is recommended to treat the affected zoas in a hospital tank with medications such as Furan-2 and Bayer Advanced Complete Insect Killer. Additionally, manually removing pests and using a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean affected areas can help manage the spread of infections.
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Light intensity
Some reef tank owners have observed that their zoas and mushrooms react to high light intensity. In one instance, a reef keeper noticed that their zoas and mushrooms distorted for about two hours after their lights reached near-peak intensity. However, midway through the light cycle, both the zoas and mushrooms relaxed and opened wide, appearing healthy for the rest of the day. This observation suggests that light intensity may have a temporary impact on zoas and mushrooms, but they can adapt and recover as the light intensity changes throughout the cycle.
Another factor to consider is the colour and type of light. Reef tanks are often illuminated with blue or white lights, which can affect the behaviour of zoas and mushrooms. Some reef enthusiasts have shared that their zoas and mushrooms were initially kept under dim blue lights, and they later adjusted the lighting conditions in their tanks. It is important to gradually introduce new lighting conditions to avoid shocking the zoas and mushrooms.
Additionally, light intensity can influence the growth and expansion of mushrooms and zoas. Mushrooms, in particular, have been known to expand and take over available space in a reef tank. Adequate lighting is crucial for their growth, and insufficient light may impact their development. Similarly, zoas can cover rocks and expand their territory in the tank. Providing appropriate light intensity and duration can promote the growth and health of both mushrooms and zoas.
Overall, light intensity is a critical factor in the maintenance and behaviour of zoas and mushrooms in a reef tank environment. While they can adapt to varying light intensities, sudden changes or extreme conditions may cause temporary distortions. Gradual adjustments and proper acclimation are essential to ensure the well-being of these organisms. By carefully monitoring and managing light intensity, reef tank owners can create a healthy and balanced environment for their zoas and mushrooms to thrive.
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Toxin release
Zoas and mushrooms will compete for space in the tank, and mushrooms can sometimes cause issues for zoas, preventing them from opening fully. However, it is unclear whether this is due to toxin release or other factors. Some reef tank owners have observed that their zoas and mushrooms distort for a few hours after their lights hit near-peak intensity, before relaxing and opening wide at the midpoint of the light cycle. This suggests that light levels may also play a role in the behaviour of zoas and mushrooms.
In some cases, toxin release by zoas themselves may be an issue. In one case, a reef tank owner introduced a contaminated zoa frag to their tank, which caused a fungus to attack their other zoas and candy canes. To remedy this, they ran the contaminated zoas through two courses of Furan 2 in a hospital tank, which resolved the issue.
To prevent issues with toxin release in a reef tank, it is important to dip new additions to the tank before introducing them to the main tank to avoid contamination. Additionally, regular water checks and the use of carbon can help to maintain water quality and minimise the impact of any toxins that may be released.
Overall, while toxin release is a potential factor in zoas mushrooming, it is just one of many factors that may influence the behaviour and health of zoas and mushrooms in a reef tank.
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Chemical warfare
Mushrooms and zoas are both types of coral. In a reef tank, corals compete for space and will release toxins to damage other corals that are too close to them. This is known as allelopathy, or "chemical warfare".
Mushrooms and zoas can coexist in a tank, but they will compete for space and may release toxins that can harm each other. In some cases, the mushrooms may even kill off the zoas. If you notice that your zoas are not opening fully or appear to be covered by the mushrooms, it may be necessary to move one or both of them to a different area of the tank.
One way to prevent chemical warfare between mushrooms and zoas is to isolate them from each other. Some hobbyists recommend moving the mushroom away from the zoas, as mushrooms can quickly take over an area. However, moving coral can be stressful for the organisms and may cause more harm than good. If you do move the mushroom, it is important to do so carefully and provide it with the proper conditions, such as adequate light and water quality.
In addition to chemical warfare, other factors can cause zoas to close up or appear unhealthy. For example, zoas may close up due to poor water quality, low light, or the presence of fungi or pests. It is important to regularly test and maintain water quality, provide adequate lighting, and quarantine new additions to the tank to prevent the introduction of contaminants.
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Frequently asked questions
It is not uncommon for zoas to close up for unknown reasons. In some cases, it could be due to contamination by a fungus, which can then spread to other zoas in the tank. In other cases, it could be due to chemical warfare, where one coral releases toxins to damage another coral that is too close to it.
To treat zoas affected by a fungus, you can follow these steps:
- Remove the affected zoas and place them in a separate container with fresh saltwater of the same temperature and salinity.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently remove any visible fungus, webbing, or sponge-like material from the zoas.
- Consider using a medication such as Furan-2 to treat the affected zoas in a hospital tank before reintroducing them to the main tank.
To prevent issues between zoas and mushrooms, it is recommended to provide sufficient space between them and ensure proper lighting conditions. In some cases, it may be necessary to separate them by moving one or the other to a different area of the tank or providing each with its own rock. Regular water parameter checks and maintenance are also important to maintain the health of all corals in the tank.
