Favites spp. are a genus of large polyp stony (LPS) corals prized for their striking appearance and relatively hardy nature, making them a popular choice for marine reef aquarists. This premium tiny variant is tank-bred, ensuring better acclimation to aquarium conditions and sustainable sourcing.
Lighting: Favites spp. thrive under moderate lighting conditions. LED or T5 lighting systems providing a PAR range of approximately 100-200 µmol/m²/s are ideal. Avoid intense direct light to prevent bleaching.
Water Flow: Moderate, indirect water flow is recommended to keep the coral healthy without causing tissue damage. Gentle water movement helps remove detritus and supports polyp extension.
Placement: Position Favites spp. on stable rockwork in the middle to lower regions of the aquarium. Ensure adequate spacing from neighbouring corals to prevent aggressive interactions, as Favites can extend sweeper tentacles.
Diet: While photosynthetic, Favites spp. benefit from supplemental feeding. Offer small meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, or specialised coral foods 1-2 times per week to promote growth and vibrant colours.
Reef Compatibility: Yes, with adequate spacing. Favites spp. can be aggressive towards nearby corals due to sweeper tentacles, so maintain sufficient distance to avoid damage.
Care Level: Moderate. Suitable for aquarists with some experience in LPS coral husbandry.
Additional Notes: Regular water parameter monitoring is essential. Maintain stable conditions with temperature around 24-26°C, salinity at 1.023-1.025 SG, and low nutrient levels to prevent algae overgrowth.
