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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 exhibit a visually diverse range of growth forms, colors, and patterns, making them a captivating addition to reef aquariums. Formerly comprising numerous species, the Favia genus now mainly consists of Caribbean species, notably Favia fragum and Favia gravida, due to reclassification by coral taxonomists.
Demands and Hardiness
Favia corals, such as the Teal Eye Favia, thrive in low to moderate lighting conditions, typically requiring 50 to 100 PAR. They are adaptable to varying water flow patterns but benefit from a balanced low to medium flow to prevent detritus buildup and coral damage. Favia feed on Zooplankton, Mysis, and powdered or pellet foods, with smaller mouthed species like Favites requiring appropriately sized food in the 0.1mm to 13mm range.
Lighting
The Teal Eye Favia and related species prefer low to moderate lighting levels to prevent bleaching and ensure optimal health. Excessive lighting can be detrimental, necessitating careful monitoring and potential relocation to shadier tank areas if signs of stress appear.
Water Flow
Maintaining a suitable water flow is essential for Favia health, although they are relatively tolerant of various flow rates. Balancing flow to avoid detritus accumulation and coral damage is crucial, with intermittent pauses in flow during feeding sessions to allow colonies to consume food efficiently.
Feeding
In addition to relying on zooxanthellae, Favia corals benefit from direct feeding with a variety of frozen foods enriched with vitamins and fatty acids. Properly sized food particles are essential for ensuring successful feeding sessions and overall coral health.
Propagation
Aquaculturing Favia corals varies among different genera within the family, with growth rates ranging from fast-growing varieties like Favites to slower-growing types such as Coelastrea. While Favia corals can heal well from cutting, their suitability for long-term commercial aquaculture depends on their individual growth characteristics.
Localization & Habitat
Natural habitats of Favia corals span the islands of the Indo-Pacific, including regions like Fiji, Tonga, the Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. These corals flourish in the diverse marine environments of these tropical locales, showcasing their adaptability and vibrancy in reef ecosystems.