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Datasheet
| Care Description | When it comes to diversity, it is hard to think of a more visually diverse group of corals than Favia. These brain corals develop multiple growth forms and come in just about every color and pattern imaginable. The diversity however is a little bit deceptive. Have you ever got the feeling that the term Favia covered a lot of corals that looked somewhat different? You are not alone.Favia brain corals were one of the largest categories of large polyp stony corals in the reef aquarium hobby. At one time there were nearly 100 species of Favia but now that number dwindled down to only two, Favia fragum, and Favia gravida, both of which are Caribbean species. That means that there are essentially zero Favia brains in the reef aquarium hobby because stony corals from the Caribbean are illegal to collect. So what happened to all these species of Favia? Coral taxonomists over the years reclassified them into other genera as more information was uncovered. Most of the corals that were once classified as Favia are now Dipsastraea, Goniastrea, Coelastrea, or Favites. |
| Water Flow | Low to Moderate |
| Temperature | 22.2°C / 71.96°F - 25.6°C / 78.08°F |
| Specific Gravity | 1.023-1.026 |
| Carbonate Hardness | 8-12 |
| pH | 8.1-8.4 |
General Description:
Favia corals are visually diverse with multiple growth forms and a wide range of colors and patterns. They were once a large category of large polyp stony corals in the reef aquarium hobby, but now only two species remain - Favia fragum and Favia gravida.
Demands and Hardiness:
Favia corals require low to moderate lighting intensity, around 50 to 100 PAR, as higher lighting may lead to bleaching. They are tolerant to a wide range of water flow patterns, but a moderate flow is ideal to prevent detritus accumulation and coral damage.
Lighting:
Favia corals prefer low to moderate lighting, and they may not tolerate very bright lighting conditions. Exposing them to excessive light can result in bleaching, so it's essential to monitor and adjust lighting levels accordingly.
Water Flow:
Maintaining a low to medium water flow is suitable for Favia corals, as they are tolerant of various flow patterns. Providing an optimal flow helps prevent detritus accumulation and potential coral damage, ensuring the overall health of the coral colony.
Feeding:
Favia corals predominantly rely on their zooxanthellae for nutrition but also benefit from direct feeding. Feeding them a variety of small meaty foods such as shrimp, fish, and squid with vitamin additives is beneficial. Spot feeding and temporarily shutting off the water flow during feeding sessions can aid in food consumption and coral health.
Propagation:
Propagation of Favia corals varies among different genera within the Favia family. While they can be cut easily and heal well, the growth rates differ significantly. Some species, like Favites, grow rapidly, while others, such as Coelastrea, have slower growth rates, impacting their suitability for long-term aquaculture endeavors.
Localization & Habitat:
Favia corals are found in the islands of the Indo-Pacific, including regions like Fiji, Tonga, the Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. They thrive in these warm tropical waters, displaying their diverse growth forms and vibrant colors in their natural habitat.