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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, once a diverse group with numerous species, now mainly consist of Favia fragum and Favia gravida, both Caribbean species. The color and pattern diversity of these brain corals make them visually striking additions to reef aquariums. However, most former Favia species have been reclassified into other genera such as Dipsastraea, Goniastrea, Coelastrea, or Favites.
Demands and Hardiness
Favia corals are generally hardy and can adapt to various conditions in reef tanks. They can thrive in low to moderate lighting, with optimal intensity ranging from 50 to 100 PAR. Maintaining a proper water flow of low to medium levels is essential, as excessive or insufficient flow can impact their health. Favia corals have smaller mouths compared to Favites, requiring appropriately-sized food particles for feeding.
Lighting
Favia corals prefer low to moderate lighting conditions, as higher intensity lighting can lead to bleaching and stress. If experimenting with higher light levels, close monitoring is crucial, and the coral should be relocated to a shadier area in case of any adverse reactions. While Favia can survive in dim lighting, excessively bright conditions should be avoided to prevent harm.
Water Flow
Maintaining a moderate water flow is essential for Favia corals, although they can tolerate a wide range of flow patterns. Providing a balanced low to medium flow helps prevent detritus buildup on colonies and reduces the risk of coral damage. Adjusting flow during feeding sessions by temporarily reducing or shutting it off allows the coral to efficiently consume food particles.
Feeding
Favia corals primarily rely on their zooxanthellae for nutrition but also benefit from direct feeding. Feeding them a mix of small-sized meaty foods like shrimp, fish, and squid, enriched with vitamin additives and highly unsaturated fatty acids (HUFA), supports their health. Ensuring that food particles are small enough for the polyps to ingest fully is crucial for their well-being.
Propagation
Propagation of Favia corals can vary among different genera within the group. While they can be easily cut and heal well from fragmentation, the growth rates differ significantly. Some varieties, like Favites, exhibit rapid growth, while others, like Coelastrea, grow at a slower pace. Successful long-term aquaculture of Favia corals depends on selecting suitable varieties with optimal growth rates for commercial purposes.
Localization & Habitat
Favia corals are commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region, including islands such as Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their natural habitat consists of diverse marine environments with suitable water conditions, moderate lighting, and adequate water flow to support their growth and development.