Aphrodite

Aphrodite is a Zoanthus strain with a pink to red face dusted in gold speckle, a warm and glamorous pattern that suits its goddess name. The gold over rose gives the polyps a soft shimmer rather than a hard contrast, and a grown-out colony looks like scattered petals with gilt edges. It is a tier 2 strain, sought after by keepers who collect the pink and gold family and want speckle fine enough to reward a close look.

Care

Place Aphrodite in the bottom to middle of the tank under medium light and medium flow through the mat. Like other zoanthids it does best with measurable nutrients; zoanthids sulk in ultra-clean water, staying partly closed and growing slowly. Keep alkalinity stable and allow the colony to settle in one position. Growth is moderate, and a healthy mat will steadily widen once it has attached and started budding new polyps at its margin.

Keeping and spread

Aphrodite spreads by mat growth, creeping across rockwork or plugs at a moderate rate. Leave about 2 in of space around the colony, because the advancing mat, though only moderately aggressive, can cover and smother slower neighbours given time and contact. To frag, cut the mat between polyps, lift the chosen section, and mount it securely on a new plug, keeping conditions consistent while it heals and resumes spreading.