Faviidae

Faviidae is a family of corals belonging to the order Scleractinia, commonly known as stony corals. These corals are characterized by their large, fleshy polyps and their hard, stony skeletons. Faviid corals are found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. They are reef-building corals and play a significant role in the formation and maintenance of coral reefs.

The skeletons of faviid corals are typically massive and rounded, forming large, dome-shaped colonies. The polyps are usually small and closely spaced, with short, stout tentacles. Faviids are known for their diverse coloration, ranging from greens and browns to blues and purples. They are photosynthetic, relying on symbiotic algae called zooxanthellae that live within their tissues to produce food.

Faviid corals are important components of coral reef ecosystems, providing habitat and food for a wide variety of marine organisms. They are also valuable indicators of ocean health, as they are sensitive to changes in water temperature, salinity, and pollution. Many faviid species are threatened by climate change, coral bleaching, and other human-induced stressors. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these important reef-building corals.