This zoanthid, a member of the Polythoa genus, is common in Hawaii. The exact species is not known for this zoanthid. The Hawaiian name for some zoanthids, Limu-make-o-Hana or the deadly seaweed of Hana, indicates how toxic some zoanthids can be. One zoanthid, Polythoa toxica, is especially toxic; the poison is thought to be made by its symbiotic bacteria or algae..

This speciman was photographed in about 40 feet of water off the south Kohala Coast near the Mauna Lani Resort on the Big Island of Hawaii.