Genus
Common name: Cactus Coral
Scientific name: Pavona
Pavona, commonly known as Cactus Coral, Lettuce Coral, or Potato Chip Coral, is a genus of small polyp stony corals (SPS) found in shallow tropical reefs. These corals are appreciated for their diverse growth forms, which can range from encrusting to leafy or plate-like structures. They exhibit a variety of colors, often in shades of green, brown, and sometimes with hints of pink or purple. Pavona corals are symbiotic with zooxanthellae, which aid in their nutrition through photosynthesis. They are relatively hardy in a reef aquarium setting, but they do require stable water conditions and moderate to high lighting to thrive. Hobbyists should provide ample space for growth and consider their potential to outcompete nearby corals.
- Common name: lettuce coralScientific name: Pavona cactus
- Common name: Leaf coralScientific name: Pavona clavus
- Common name: Leaf coralScientific name: Pavona danai
- Common name: Leaf coralScientific name: Pavona decussata
- Common name: Leaf coralScientific name: Pavona duerdeni
- Common name: Leaf coralScientific name: Pavona explanulata
- Common name: Leaf coralScientific name: Pavona frondifera
- Common name: Leaf coralScientific name: Pavona maldivensis
- Common name: Leaf coralScientific name: Pavona varians