How to frag zoanthids safely (palytoxin safety first)

Zoanthids are one of the easiest corals to grow into more colonies. They are also one of the corals that need the most care in handling. Some zoanthids (and the closely related palythoas) can contain palytoxin, a potent toxin. Take the safety rules seriously.

Safety first

• Wear gloves and eye protection every time you handle zoanthids.
• Do not frag or scrape them with cuts or broken skin on your hands.
• Never boil, burn or scrape rock covered in zoanthids in a closed room, or pour hot water on them. Toxic fumes and aerosols are the main danger.
• Keep the area well ventilated, and wash your hands and tools afterwards.
• If a colony's juices get in your eyes or on broken skin, rinse well and get medical advice.

What you need

• A sharp bone cutter or scalpel and a clean tray.
• Frag plugs. We sell 3D printed frag plugs in packs of 5.
• Gel super glue or reef epoxy, and a bowl of tank water.

A simple method

1. Choose a healthy colony with open polyps and no tissue loss.
2. Cut a small group of 3 to 5 polyps from the edge, keeping the connecting mat with them.
3. Dry the base lightly, then glue it to a plug and hold for a few seconds.
4. Place it back in a lower-light spot. Our PAR guide lists typical zoanthid light at about 75 to 150.
5. Leave it alone for several days while it heals.

Good habits

• Frag in small batches. It is easier to keep things clean and safe.
• Dispose of trimmings carefully. Do not flush them or leave them where children or pets can reach them.

Not sure where to start? See our zoanthids, or read zoanthids vs mushroom corals.