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
Favia corals are visually diverse, showcasing multiple growth forms and a wide array of colors and patterns. Despite the variety within the Favia group, the number of recognized species has decreased significantly over the years, with only Favia fragum and Favia gravida remaining as Caribbean representatives. Coral taxonomists have reclassified many former Favia species into other genera like Dipsastraea, Goniastrea, Coelastrea, or Favites.
Demands and Hardiness
Favia corals are considered hardy and demand a setup with low to moderate lighting, typically ranging from 50 to 100 PAR. Higher lighting levels can lead to bleaching and should be monitored closely. They thrive in water conditions with a pH of 8.1-8.4, a specific gravity of 1.023-1.026, a temperature range of 22.2-25.6°C, and a dKH of 8-12. Additionally, Favia corals prefer low to moderate water flow to maintain their health.
Lighting
In aquarium settings, Favia corals should be housed in low to moderate light conditions. Excessive lighting can stress the corals and increase the risk of bleaching. Adequate lighting levels, typically between 50 to 100 PAR, are essential for the well-being of Favia colonies. Adjustments to lighting intensity may be necessary, and any signs of distress should prompt relocation to a shadier area within the tank.
Water Flow
Maintaining a low to moderate water flow is important for the health of Favia corals. While water flow is crucial for overall coral health, Favia corals are generally tolerant of various flow patterns. Striking a balance with a mid-range flow is recommended to prevent detritus accumulation, which can lead to dead spots on the colonies. Altering flow dynamics specifically for Favia may not be as critical as it is for other coral species.
Feeding
Favia corals primarily rely on the products of their zooxanthellae for nutrition but also benefit from direct feeding. Offering a mix of small meaty foods such as shrimp, fish, and squid with vitamin additives and HUFA can enhance the health of Favia colonies. Feeding should be done with appropriately sized food particles to ensure full ingestion by the coral polyps.
Propagation
Propagation of Favia corals can vary depending on the specific genus. While some varieties like Favites exhibit rapid growth and are easier to propagate, others such as Coelastrea are slower growers. The process of cutting Favia corals for propagation is generally successful, with the colonies healing well post-cutting. Long-term commercial aquaculture may present challenges due to varying growth rates among different Favia species.
Localization & Habitat
Favia corals are typically found in the islands of the Indo-Pacific region, including areas like Fiji, Tonga, the Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their natural habitat provides insight into the environmental conditions that best support the growth and maintenance of Favia colonies.