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Datasheet
| Care Description | Pavona are commonly referred to as Cactus Corals as several of their growth forms resemble cacti. They are a fast growing SPS Coral and can quickly form a large colony from a single frag. They are considered one of the easiest SPS corals to care for. Please see below for more care tips for Pavona. |
| Water Flow | Strong |
| 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
Pavona corals, also known as Cactus Corals due to their cacti-like growth forms, are fast-growing SPS corals that can establish large colonies from a single frag. They are considered one of the easiest SPS corals to care for. The Orange Pavona variety is particularly striking with neon orange polyps contrasting against a purple base.
Demands and Hardiness
Pavona corals require moderate lighting levels, with medium lighting being optimal. They are not known to change color as drastically as other SPS corals and can be susceptible to bleaching if exposed to excessively bright lighting. Strong water flow is recommended to carry food to the colony and prevent detritus buildup, which can lead to coral die-off. Pavona's sweeper tentacles necessitate careful placement to avoid damaging nearby corals.
Lighting
Pavona corals thrive in medium lighting conditions. Excessive brightness can cause bleaching, so acclimation may be necessary when transitioning to intense lighting sources like metal halides or high-wattage LEDs.
Water Flow
Strong water movement is vital for Pavona corals to facilitate food delivery and prevent detritus accumulation. A robust flow not only benefits the coral's health but also enhances its visual appeal by creating movement in the tentacles, especially noticeable in the furry Pavona varieties.
Feeding
Pavona corals mainly rely on their zooxanthellae for nutrition but can also feed on zooplankton, Mysis shrimp, and small microfauna present in the water column. Care should be taken to prevent overfeeding to avoid water quality issues.
Propagation
Pavona corals have been successfully propagated in captivity and show promise for aquaculture endeavors. Their rapid growth makes them a suitable candidate for sustainable harvest practices over time.
Localization & Habitat
The Orange Pavona species is commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region, including islands such as Fiji, Tonga, the Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their natural habitat showcases their affinity for strong water currents, mimicking the conditions they thrive in captivity.