Mystic Grape Favia

Mystic Grape Favia: The Deep Purple Moon Coral

The Mystic Grape Favia is a visually striking collector strain of Favia coral, a type of Large Polyp Stony (LPS) coral. Favia species are robust corals commonly known as "Moon Corals" or "Brain Corals," valued for their hardiness and dense, massive structure.

This specific strain is named "Mystic Grape" for its saturated, uniform deep purple or rich violet base that covers the walls (septa/coenosteum). This dark base is typically contrasted by recessed, clearly defined corallite mouths (centers) in neon green or chartreuse. The dense purple color is highly sought after and intensifies under good blue-spectrum lighting.

The Mystic Grape Favia grows in an encrusting and massive or dome-shaped morphology, with individual corallites clearly delineated. It is considered a Hardy LPS coral, making it suitable for intermediate hobbyists. It requires stable water parameters and should be protected from excessive light, which can cause its deep purple coloration to fade or turn brown.

Diet & Compatibility:

• Diet: This coral is a Mixotroph, meaning it is primarily Photosynthetic (deriving most energy from symbiotic algae) but is also a capable 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 when polyps extend. 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 other brain corals, extend long, potent sweeper tentacles at night to defend their territory. It is essential to give the Mystic Grape Favia at least 3-4 inches of clear space from all neighboring corals, particularly 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 directing strong, laminar flow directly onto its fleshy 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: Mystic Grape Favia
• Other Common Names: Purple Base Green Eye Favia, Grape Favia
• 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