Toxic Palay

KM Wrasse · Jul 11, 2020

I wanted to know if anyone can identify these palays that are starting to spread In my tank. Are these the very toxic variety? If so ,I want to make sure I keep them contained and not allow them on my main rock structure.
Thanks

andrewey · Jul 11, 2020

Someone probably put a fancy name with them, but I think most people just call them green palys. I'm guessing they are P. mutuki. If you can observe them when they close, there's a good primer on identifying the species that contain paly toxin vs. those that don't here:

https://reefs.com/2015/09/14/the-dangers-and-myths-of-zoa-toxicity-part-1/

ecamden · Jul 11, 2020

Not very toxic but grow quickly and can overtake a rock in no time

KM Wrasse · Jul 11, 2020

andrewey said:
Someone probably put a fancy name with them, but I think most people just call them green palys. I'm guessing they are P. mutuki. If you can observe them when they close, there's a good primer on identifying the species that contain paly toxin vs. those that don't here:

https://reefs.com/2015/09/14/the-dangers-and-myths-of-zoa-toxicity-part-1/

Thank you for the reply ! ... A little more info...these are the solid bright green variety ... they have black stalks/base that are smooth and the mouth is also green. I’ll check out the link.. thanks again