Common name: Honeycomb Coral

General information

Favites acuticollis, commonly known as Honeycomb Coral, is a species of stony coral that is popular among reef aquarium enthusiasts. This coral is part of the family Merulinidae and is known for its distinctive honeycomb-like appearance, with corallites that are angular and share common walls. The coloration of Favites acuticollis can vary widely, with specimens displaying a range of hues from green to brown, red, or even multi-colored patterns.

Care

Honeycomb Coral is considered moderately difficult to care for, requiring stable water conditions and moderate to high lighting to thrive. It benefits from moderate water flow, which helps to keep the coral free from detritus and provides it with the nutrients it needs. Favites acuticollis is a photosynthetic coral, relying on its symbiotic relationship with zooxanthellae algae to produce energy, but it also benefits from supplemental feedings of plankton or other fine particulate foods.

Symbiosis

Like many stony corals, Favites acuticollis hosts symbiotic zooxanthellae algae within its tissues. These algae provide the coral with essential nutrients through photosynthesis, while the coral provides the algae with a protected environment and access to sunlight. This mutualistic relationship is crucial for the coral's survival, especially in nutrient-poor waters of coral reefs.

Habitat

Favites acuticollis is found in the Indo-Pacific region, typically in shallow reef environments. It prefers areas with strong lighting and can often be found on reef slopes and in lagoons. In the wild, it forms massive colonies that contribute to the complex structure of coral reefs, providing habitat for a diverse range of marine life.