Favites colemani

Favites colemani is a coral species found in the Indo-West Pacific region, ranging from the Bonin Islands to Australia, and from the Gulf of Aden to the Solomon Islands. This coral thrives in tropical waters, typically inhabiting depths from the surface down to 30 meters. It is commonly found on subtidal rocks, rocky reefs, reef slopes, outer reef channels, and lagoons, making it a versatile component of coral reef ecosystems. Favites colemani is sessile, meaning it remains fixed in one place. It reproduces by shedding mature gametes into the coelenteron, which are then released through the mouth. The life cycle includes the development of a planktonic planula larva, which eventually settles and undergoes metamorphosis, forming tentacles, septa, and a pharynx before establishing itself on the substrate. Divers encountering Favites colemani can expect to find it in shallow waters, as 90% of occurrences are recorded at depths shallower than 10 meters. It is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. However, it is included in CITES Appendix II, meaning its international trade is monitored.