Button Polyp (Palythoa): Green - Central Pacific

The Button Polyp Coral, Palythoa sp., is a type of colonial coral that is exceptionally hardy. The Button Polyp is a perfect beginner coral for new aquarists and experts alike. Button Polyps are not photosynthetic themselves, rather they have a symbiotic relationship with certain species of algae that live on the coral that photosynthesize for energy. Button Polyps often grow as solitary polyps but tightly spaced in colonies. Do not house filamentuous algae with Button Polyps. They should be kept with moderate lighting, moderate waterflow, and be placed towards the bottom of the tank with ample room in between them and neighbors. Of interest is that the Button Polyp produces palytoxin so do not handle the coral with bare flesh and be sure to wash any instruments used to handle the coral after handling. Otherwise, Button Polyps are great corals because they are easy to maintain and add a certain amount of color to many tanks.