More info
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
When considering the diversity within the Favia group, these brain corals exhibit multiple growth forms and display a wide array of colors and patterns. Initially, nearly 100 species of Favia existed in the reef aquarium hobby, but now only two remain - Favia fragum and Favia gravida, both Caribbean species. The decline in the number of species is due to reclassification by coral taxonomists into other genera like Dipsastraea, Goniastrea, Coelastrea, or Favites.
Demands and Hardiness
Favia corals require low to moderate lighting conditions, with an optimal range of 50 to 100 PAR. Higher lighting intensities may lead to bleaching, requiring relocation to shadier areas promptly. Water flow for Favia should be low to moderate, as they can tolerate a variety of flow patterns. Spot feeding with a variety of frozen fish foods enriched with vitamins and fatty acids is beneficial, catering to the coral's nutritional needs.
Lighting
Favia corals thrive in low to moderate lighting, typically between 50 to 100 PAR. Exposure to excessive light can lead to bleaching, necessitating relocation to lower light conditions. Dim lighting is well-tolerated by Favia corals, whereas overly bright lighting should be avoided to prevent stress and bleaching.
Water Flow
Maintaining a low to moderate water flow for Favia corals is crucial for their health. Adequate flow prevents detritus buildup and dead spots on colonies while avoiding excessive flow that could cause damage. For feeding purposes, temporarily shutting off water flow for 20-30 minutes allows the colony to capture and consume food efficiently.
Feeding
Favia corals predominantly rely on zooxanthellae for nutrition but benefit from direct feeding. Offering small-sized meaty foods like shrimp, fish, and squid with vitamin supplements and fatty acids supports their dietary requirements. Care should be taken to ensure that the food provided is of a size that the coral can consume fully.
Propagation
Aquaculture potential for Favia corals varies depending on the genus. While some, like Favites, exhibit rapid growth and are suitable for commercial aquaculture, others like Coelastrea grow at a slower rate. Propagation involves cutting the corals, which generally heal well post-cutting. However, long-term commercial aquaculture efforts may be hindered by variations in growth rates among different Favia varieties.
Localization & Habitat
Favia corals are predominantly found in the Indo-Pacific islands, including regions like Fiji, Tonga, the Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their natural habitat encompasses diverse reef environments where they contribute to the intricate marine ecosystems through their unique growth forms and vibrant colors.