Handling Zoas?

I really love zoas and would not mind have a tank full of them but I have been reading that they are poisonous. My question is how do you guys go about maintenance on your tank and what precautions do you take. Any help and thanks in advance.

 

i always handle me zoas bare handed but sum ppl dont they can be problematic if u have a open wound

 

Is it only when you handle or is it in the water. I mean you can wear gloves to handle but when you own a large tank you are always over your elbow doing something.

 

It's just when handling them.

 

I mean you know when you are doing a water change and you siphon out water sometimes a little hits your lips or should I be looking for a new way to do water changes.

 

When you handle zoas some of them will release a toxin called palytoxin. This chemical is very dangerous, but it will most likely only cause issues if you have an open wound. I advise you to just wear latex free gloves when handling them.

 

Man I am thinking I should have went with the ant farm. ;D:;D

 

a lil coral poop on the lips never hurt anybody

 

Always better to error on the side of caution when working with zoanthids or working in a system dominated by them.

It took me about 6 months to realize the tingling in my arm and resulting errythemia (redness) was from handling my zoanthids without gloves.

Do a search on RC and you will find several first hand cases with the images to prove it.

Just because one person shows no ill effects does not mean you should be any less cautious.

 

Here is a very shocking thread from RC. I know people do not love links to other forums, but this is just for the safety of other members

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1083843&highlight=sick from zoanthids

WEAR GLOVES AND BE CAREFUL WHEN YOU HANDLE ZOAS