Common name: Knob coral

General information

Favia veroni, commonly known as Veron's Favia Coral, is a species of stony coral that is popular among reef aquarium enthusiasts. This coral is known for its hardiness and the beautiful, dome-shaped colonies it forms. The polyps of Favia veroni can exhibit a variety of colors, often with contrasting centers and margins, which can range from greens and browns to more vibrant hues under proper lighting.

Care

Veron's Favia Coral is relatively easy to maintain, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced hobbyists. It thrives in moderate lighting conditions and benefits from moderate water flow, which helps to keep the polyps free of debris and aids in nutrient exchange. Feeding is not strictly necessary, as Favia veroni hosts zooxanthellae that provide energy through photosynthesis. However, supplemental feeding with microplankton or coral foods can promote growth and enhance coloration.

Symbiosis

While Favia veroni does not have any specific symbiotic relationships akin to those seen in clownfish and anemones, its structure provides shelter and habitat for a variety of small reef organisms, contributing to the overall biodiversity of the reef aquarium.

Habitat

In the wild, Favia veroni is found on reef slopes and in lagoons, typically in shallow to moderate depths where sunlight can support its zooxanthellae. It is distributed across the Indo-Pacific region, often forming part of the complex reef structures that support diverse marine life.