Favia of the Gods

The Favia of the Gods is a breathtaking LPS (large-polyp stony) coral, prized for its intense neon colors that typically feature a deep red, orange, or purple base with bright green, yellow, or blue highlights around its polyp mouths. Known for its hardy nature and slow but steady growth, this Favia variety is a fantastic addition to reef tanks, providing a mesmerizing contrast to other corals.

Care Guide:

• Tank Size: Suitable for nano (20+ gallons) and larger reef tanks, but thrives in 50+ gallons for stability.
• Temperament: Moderately aggressive – extends sweeper tentacles at night, so ensure at least 3-4 inches of space from neighboring corals.
• Lighting: Moderate to low (PAR 75-150); excessive light can lead to color fading or stress.
• Flow: Moderate – enough to prevent detritus buildup but not so strong that it damages its fleshy polyps.
• Placement:
  • Best placed on lower rockwork or the sandbed, ensuring it has room to spread and encrust.
  • Avoid placing near highly aggressive corals like Galaxea, Torch, or Hydnophora.
• Feeding:
  • Carnivorous – benefits from target feeding 1-2 times per week with:
    • Mysis shrimp
    • Brine shrimp
    • Reef-specific coral foods (powdered or liquid)
  • Gains additional nutrients from photosynthesis via its zooxanthellae.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 74-78°F (23-26°C)
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Salinity: 1.024-1.026
  • Alkalinity: 8-12 dKH
  • Calcium: 400-450 ppm
  • Magnesium: 1250-1350 ppm
  • Nitrate & Phosphate: Low but detectable (NO₃: 5-10 ppm, PO₄: 0.03-0.07 ppm) – excess nutrients can lead to algae overgrowth.

Compatibility:

• Best with other LPS corals, but ensure sufficient spacing to prevent aggressive sweeper tentacle interactions.
• Avoid placement near aggressive corals like Galaxea, Torch, or Hydnophora, which may outcompete it.
• Pairs well with soft corals that do not compete for space or nutrients.

Special Considerations:

• Coloration Enhancement: Lower light settings help maintain deeper reds and oranges, while excessive light may cause bleaching or dulling of colors.
• Fragging: Can be fragged but requires clean cuts using a dremel or bandsaw to prevent excessive tissue damage.
• Nighttime Behavior: Extends sweeper tentacles at night for feeding and territory defense.

Summary:

The Favia of the Gods is a vibrant, hardy, and moderately aggressive LPS coral, perfect for adding intense color and texture to reef aquariums. With stable water conditions, moderate lighting, and occasional feeding, it will thrive and become a stunning centerpiece in any reef tank.