Favia & Goniastrea Coral Care Guide – Care, Feeding & Lighting Tips
Introduction
Favia and Goniastrea corals are popular LPS corals known for their bold polyp textures and striking color patterns. Their encrusting or dome-shaped colonies add structure and movement to reef tanks. With moderate lighting, gentle flow, and occasional feeding, these corals are hardy, visually appealing, and easy to maintain.
Naming Controversy
Much like with acans, the favia available in the hobby have been reclassified into several different groups including Favites, Dipsastraea, Goniastrea, Coelastrea, with the only true favia existing the the Caribbean. However, for the practical use of the average hobbyist, we prefer to stick to the common names.
Natural Habitat
Native to the Indo-Pacific, Favia and Goniastrea corals inhabit reef slopes and lagoons with low to moderate water flow. They often grow on rock surfaces in shallow to moderate depths and prefer indirect lighting, which informs their ideal aquarium placement.
Aquarium Care & Setup
Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)
pH: 8.1–8.4
Salinity: 1.024–1.026
Flow: Low to moderate, enough to bring nutrients to polyps without blasting colonies
Lighting: Moderate, ideally 50–150 PAR
Placement: Lower rockwork or shaded areas, leaving space between colonies to prevent stinging
Feeding Favia & Goniastrea Corals
Both genera benefit from occasional target feeding. Polyps will accept small meaty foods like mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, or coral-specific pellets. Feeding 1–3 times per week supports coloration, polyp extension, and healthy growth.
Growth and Behavior
Favia forms dome-shaped or encrusting colonies with thick-walled polyps, while Goniastrea grows flatter honeycomb colonies. Both are slow to moderate growers. Favia may extend sweeper tentacles at night to defend space. Polyps remain extended throughout the day and night, adding texture and color to the reef.
Tankmates
Compatible with most peaceful reef fish and invertebrates. Avoid placing near aggressive corals that may overgrow or sting. Ideal tankmates include clownfish, gobies, cleaner shrimp, wrasses, and snails.
FAQs about Favia & Goniastrea Corals
Are Favia and Goniastrea corals easy to keep?
Yes, they are hardy LPS corals suitable for beginners and experienced reef keepers.
Do they need to be fed?
Not necessarily, but occasional target feeding 1–3 times per week promotes growth, color, and polyp extension.
What lighting do Favia and Goniastrea corals need?
Moderate lighting (50–150 PAR). Avoid intense direct light to prevent bleaching.
Where should I place them in my tank?
On rockwork or lower tank areas with low to moderate flow, leaving space between colonies to prevent coral conflicts.
Will they sting other corals?
Favia can be aggressive with some varieties extending long sweeper tentacles at night.
How fast do they grow?
Moderate growth; colonies expand slowly depending on lighting, flow, and feeding.
Conclusion
Favia and Goniastrea corals are colorful, hardy, and texturally striking LPS corals that enhance any reef aquarium. With moderate lighting, gentle water flow, proper spacing, and occasional feeding, they thrive and display their unique encrusting or dome-shaped formations. Their distinctive patterns and adaptability make them ideal choices for hobbyists seeking vibrant, low-maintenance corals.
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