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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 brain corals are visually diverse, with multiple growth forms and an array of colors and patterns. While once encompassing nearly 100 species, only two Caribbean species remain in the reef aquarium hobby—Favia fragum and Favia gravida. Coral taxonomists reclassified many former Favia species into genera like Dipsastraea, Goniastrea, Coelastrea, or Favites.
Demands and Hardiness
The Joker Favia is a fast-growing and exceptionally hardy coral, known for its bright blue/purple center with a neon green rim. These corals typically thrive in low to medium light settings and can adapt well to varying water flow conditions, making them relatively low maintenance in terms of specific demands.
Lighting
Favia corals thrive in low to moderate lighting conditions, typically around 50 to 100 PAR. Higher light intensities can cause stress and bleaching in these corals, so it is advisable to monitor their reaction to light and adjust placement accordingly to prevent damage.
Water Flow
Favia corals are tolerant of a wide range of water flow patterns, with low to medium flow being ideal for most specimens. Adequate flow helps prevent detritus buildup and dead spots, but excessive flow can potentially harm the coral. Temporarily shutting off the flow during feeding sessions allows the coral to capture and consume food efficiently.
Feeding
While Favia corals primarily rely on their zooxanthellae for nutrition, they can benefit from direct feeding. Offering a variety of small-sized meaty foods such as shrimp, fish, and squid with vitamin additives and highly unsaturated fatty acids (HUFA) can supplement their diet effectively.
Propagation
Propagation of Favia corals varies depending on the specific genus. While most Favia corals heal well from cutting and can be propagated easily, their growth rates differ significantly. Some varieties, like Favites, grow rapidly, while others, such as Coelastrea, grow more slowly, posing challenges for long-term commercial aquaculture.
Localization & Habitat
Favia corals are primarily found in the islands of the Indo-Pacific, including regions like Fiji, Tonga, the Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their natural habitat consists of diverse reef ecosystems where they contribute to the intricate marine biodiversity.