Brain Coral, Favites

The Favites Corals are large polyp stony (LPS) corals, often referred to as Moon, Pineapple, Brain, Closed Brain, Star, Worm, or Honeycomb Coral. They are the most common and prolific coral in the world, and are very similar to the genus Favia, sharing many of the same common names, and sometimes being very difficult to differentiate. Favites Corals are found in various color forms and polyp shapes. "Pineapple Coral" is the name commonly given to those that have smaller circular patterns.

Favites sp.

Quick Stats: Brain Coral, Favites

Family: Faviidae
Polyp Size: LPS - Large polyp stony
Range: Indo-Pacific
Color Form: Brown, Cream, Green, Orange, Yellow
Ideal Supplements: Calcium, Strontium, Trace elements
Reef Compatible: Yes
Tank Conditions: 72-78ºF; sg 1.023-1.025; pH 8.1-8.4
Water Flow: Medium
Light: Medium
Dominance: Aggressive
Placement: All levels
Care Level: Easy




The Favites Corals are aggressive, expanding their sweeper tentacles at night well beyond the base. It is important to leave space between them and neighbors in the reef aquarium. Maintenance for the Favites Corals is relatively easy, making them excellent choices for the beginner to expert hobbyist. They require a medium light level combined with a medium water movement within the aquarium. For continued good health, calcium, strontium, and other trace elements should be added to the water.

It will benefit from the addition of supplemental food in the form of micro-plankton or brine shrimp, fed twice per week in the evening while its tentacles are visible.