Pavona are small polyp stony (SPS) corals in the Agariciidae family. Pavona can grow by encrusting, branching, and plating. Their polyps are seated in deeply embedded corallites, which offer them some additional protection. The polyps that cover a Pavona give the coral a fuzzy appearance. Which is why they are sometimes referred to as, “Cactus corals,” “Lettuce corals,” or “Potato chip corals.” These corals can add some wonderful texture to your reef. Pavona corals are mostly found in green and tan, but also in fluorescent colors.
Pavona corals require moderate lighting. We recommend around 200-250 PAR. Bear in mind that most corals can be gradually adapted to lighting conditions outside of their normal preferences. Pavona corals also prefer strong water flow.
Through their symbiotic relationship with a photosynthetic algae, known as zooxanthellae, they receive many of their nutrients. To maintain good health, calcium, strontium, and other trace elements should be monitored and added as needed. Pavona corals may benefit from targeted feeding with micro-plankton.
When placing your Pavona, please remember that these corals are semi-aggressive and have sweeper tentacles that can damage neighboring corals. Be sure to provide enough personal space for your Pavona corals to grow and thrive.