One dimensional bifunctional magnetic-photocatalytic CNTs/Fe3O4-ZnO nanohybrids were synthesized by one-pot polyol sequential process. The as synthesized products were characterized by X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, transmission electronic microscope, energy dispersive spectrometer, physical properties measurement system and UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy. The results exhibit the ZnO forms heterogenerously on the surface of CNTs/Fe3O4 and the nanohybrids display superparamagnetic behavior at room temperature. Photocatalytic studies verify the as-prepared sample have high photocatalytic activity toward the photodegradation of methyl orange in solution. In addition, the photocatalyst can be recycled using magnetic field and maintain high photocatalytic activity. (C) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.