WYSIWYG Orange Pavona Coral – Pavona maldivensis

Orange Pavona Overview:

The Orange Pavona Coral (Pavona maldivensis) is a captivating small polyp stony (SPS) coral, celebrated for its vivid orange coloration and unique skeletal structure. Its encrusting to plating growth form and distinctive patterns make it an excellent choice for aquarists seeking to enhance their reef aquariums with both beauty and resilience.

Lighting Needs:

This coral flourishes under moderate lighting conditions, with a PAR range of 100–150. Suitable lighting options include LED, T5, or hybrid systems. Gradual acclimation to lighting changes is recommended to prevent stress or bleaching.

Water Flow Requirements:

Moderate to strong, indirect water flow is ideal. This ensures the coral’s surface remains free from debris and facilitates nutrient delivery. Avoid direct, high-intensity currents, which can cause tissue damage or retraction.

Aquarium Compatibility:

While the Orange Pavona Coral is generally peaceful, it possesses sweeper tentacles that can extend and sting nearby corals. Ensure a minimum distance of 3–6 inches from other corals to prevent potential aggression.

Feeding & Nutrition:

Primarily photosynthetic, this coral benefits from supplemental feeding 1–2 times per week. Suitable foods include micro-plankton and specialised coral foods. Target feeding during polyp extension periods enhances growth and vitality.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 24–27°C

• Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG

• pH: 8.1–8.4

• Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH

• Calcium: 400–450 ppm

• Magnesium: 1250–1350 ppm

• Nitrate: 1–10 ppm

• Phosphate: 0.01–0.05 ppm

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Features:

• Scientific Name: Pavona maldivensis

• Common Name: Orange Pavona Coral

• Type: Small Polyp Stony (SPS) Coral

• Origin: Indo-Pacific

• Colouration: Vivid orange

• Placement: Middle to upper regions of the aquarium

• Growth Form: Encrusting to plating structures

• Behaviour: Semi-aggressive; requires spacing from other corals

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Why Choose the Orange Pavona Coral:

• Enhanced Visual Appeal: The striking orange coloration adds a vibrant focal point to your reef tank.

• Hardy Nature: Known for its resilience, making it suitable for both novice and experienced aquarists.

• Manageable Care Level: With moderate lighting and flow requirements, it’s adaptable to various aquarium setups.

• Compatibility: Can be integrated into mixed coral setups when proper spacing is maintained.

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FAQs:

Q: Is this coral suitable for beginners?
A: Yes, the Orange Pavona Coral is hardy and adaptable, making it suitable for aquarists with some experience.

Q: Can I place it near other corals?
A: Due to its semi-aggressive nature, ensure at least 3–6 inches of space from other corals to prevent potential stinging.

Q: What lighting is best for this coral?
A: Moderate lighting (PAR 100–150) using LED, T5, or hybrid systems is ideal. Gradual acclimation to lighting changes is recommended.

Q: How often should I feed it?
A: While it obtains nutrients through photosynthesis, supplemental feeding 1–2 times per week with appropriate coral foods enhances growth and colouration.