Jedi Mind Trick Zoa

The Jedi Mind Trick Zoanthid is a vibrant and highly sought-after soft coral, known for its striking mix of neon greens, blues, reds, and purples, often resembling a sci-fi-inspired glow under actinic lighting. As part of the Zoanthus genus, this coral is hardy, fast-growing, and an excellent choice for beginners and advanced reef keepers alike. Jedi Mind Trick Zoas thrive in colonial formations, creating a stunning carpet of color across rock surfaces.

Care Guide:

• Tank Size: Suitable for nano (10+ gallons) and larger reef tanks.
• Temperament: Peaceful, does not have sweeper tentacles but can spread quickly and outcompete other corals for space.
• Lighting: Low to moderate (PAR 80-200); higher light can enhance colors but may cause polyp retraction if too intense.
• Flow: Moderate to high – needs good flow to prevent detritus buildup and encourage full polyp extension.
• Placement:
  • Best placed on rockwork or frag racks, ensuring it has room to spread.
  • Can be placed on isolated islands in the aquascape to prevent overgrowth in the main reef.
• Feeding:
  • Primarily rely on photosynthesis via their zooxanthellae.
  • Can benefit from target or broadcast feeding with:
    • Reef amino acids
    • Phytoplankton
    • Powdered coral foods (e.g., Reef Roids)
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 74-78°F (23-26°C)
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Salinity: 1.024-1.026
  • Alkalinity: 8-12 dKH
  • Calcium: 400-450 ppm
  • Magnesium: 1250-1350 ppm
  • Nitrate & Phosphate: Low but detectable (NO₃: 5-10 ppm, PO₄: 0.02-0.07 ppm) – too much can encourage algae growth, while too little can stunt coral health.

Compatibility:

• Very peaceful, can be placed near most corals.
• Best kept with other soft corals or LPS corals that do not compete aggressively.
• Avoid placing near aggressive corals with strong sweeper tentacles (e.g., Galaxea, Torch, Hydnophora).

Special Considerations:

• Overgrowth Management: Jedi Mind Trick Zoas can spread quickly – placing them on an isolated rock can help prevent them from overtaking the tank.
• Coloration Enhancement: Strong actinic (blue-heavy) lighting enhances their fluorescent glow.
• Palytoxin Warning: Like many Zoanthids, they may contain palytoxins, which can be toxic if ingested or handled improperly. Always wear gloves and eye protection when fragging or handling.

Summary:

The Jedi Mind Trick Zoanthid is a hardy, fast-growing, and visually stunning soft coral, perfect for creating a vibrant, glowing reefscape. With stable water conditions, moderate flow, and occasional feeding, it will thrive and develop into a breathtaking colony in any reef aquarium.