Pavona (cactus coral)

Care at a glance

Pavona grows in thin, ruffled plates that rise from the rock like leaves or a cactus, with a finely ridged surface and very small polyps. It is one of the few small-polyp corals that also thrives under more moderate lighting.

It grows steadily and tolerates swings reasonably well, which makes it a suitable step towards more demanding stony corals. Give it moderate to strong light, moderate flow and room, because it expands sideways and can shade out neighbours.

Related species

• CyphastreaCyphastrea sp.
• HydnophoraHydnophora sp.
• Devils hand leatherLobophytum sp.
• GalaxeaGalaxea fascicularis
• Anthelia (waving hand)Anthelia sp.
• Pipe organ coralTubipora musica