Blue Skull Favia

Blue Skull Favia: The Iridescent Blue Brain Coral

The Blue Skull Favia is a highly sought-after collector strain of Favia coral, a type of Large Polyp Stony (LPS) coral. Favia species are often referred to as "Moon Corals" or "Brain Corals" and are foundational pieces in many reef aquariums due to their durability and dense, patterned growth.

This specific strain is named for its mesmerizing, iridescent deep blue or violet base that coats the walls (septa/coenosteum), often contrasted by bright green or neon yellow centers (corallite mouths). The "Skull" name may refer to the recessed, pitted appearance of the corallites against the smooth blue tissue. The blue coloration is highly dependent on blue-spectrum lighting.

The Blue Skull Favia grows in an encrusting and massive or dome-shaped morphology, with individual corallites clearly separated by pronounced walls. It is considered a Hardy LPS coral, making it an excellent choice for intermediate hobbyists. It requires stable water parameters and protection from high light, which can cause its vibrant blue to fade or bleach.

Diet & Compatibility:

• Diet: This coral is a Mixotroph, meaning it is primarily Photosynthetic but is also an effective Carnivore. It relies on zooxanthellae for most of its energy.
• Feeding: Supplemental target feeding is highly beneficial for faster growth and maintaining health. Its mouths are visible and receptive, especially at night. Feed 2-3 times per week with meaty foods, such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, cyclops, or fine coral foods like Reef Roids and amino acid solutions.
• Reef Compatibility: It is Reef Safe but is Aggressive. Favia corals, like many other brain corals, extend long, potent sweeper tentacles at night to defend their territory. It is essential to give the Blue Skull Favia at least 3-4 inches of clear space from all neighboring corals, particularly when placed near passive or delicate species.
• Temperament: Peaceful toward fish and motile invertebrates, but Aggressive/Territorial toward other corals. It should be positioned on mid-to-lower rockwork where it receives moderate, indirect light and moderate water flow. Avoid excessive flow directly on the tissue.
• Water Requirements: Requires stable parameters. The tank should be mature with low to moderate nutrient levels (Nitrate 5-10 ppm, Phosphate 0.05-0.1 ppm). Critical parameters: Alkalinity (dKH 8.0-9.5), Calcium (400-450 ppm), and Magnesium (1250-1350 ppm). Demands Moderate PAR lighting (100-200 PAR).

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Favia sp. (Specific Strain)
• Primary Common Name: Blue Skull Favia
• Other Common Names: Blue Favia, Iridescent Brain Coral
• Origin: Cultured/Maricultured (Originals from the Indo-Pacific)
• Max Size: Can grow into large, dome-shaped colonies (8-12+ inches)
• Temperament: Aggressive (Territorial, uses potent sweeper tentacles)
• Diet: Photosynthetic and Carnivore (Benefits greatly from target feeding)
• Minimum Tank Size: 20 Gallons (Established reef)
• Reef Compatibility: Yes, but requires strict spacing.
• Care Level: Moderate