Common name: Larger star coral

General information

The Honeycomb Coral, Favites flexuosa, is a species of stony coral that is popular among reef aquarium enthusiasts for its hardiness and vibrant colors. This coral is part of the family Merulinidae and is known for its distinctive honeycomb-like appearance, with corallites that are closely packed together, giving it a textured look.

Care

Favites flexuosa is considered a hardy coral that can adapt to a range of lighting conditions, from moderate to high intensity. It benefits from moderate to strong water flow, which helps to keep the coral free of debris and provides essential nutrients. Feeding is not strictly necessary, but target feeding with microplankton or finely minced seafood can promote growth and coloration.

Symbiosis

While Favites flexuosa does not have any specific symbiotic relationships as notable as those of clownfish and anemones, it does host a variety of small marine organisms within its structure. These can include microfauna that benefit from the shelter provided by the coral's complex structure.

Habitat

In the wild, Favites flexuosa is found on reef slopes and in lagoons, typically in the Indo-Pacific region. It can occur at various depths, often forming part of the reef structure and contributing to the biodiversity of the ecosystem.