Favites rotundata

Favites rotundata is a coral species found in the Indo-West Pacific region, typically inhabiting reef slopes and lagoons. This coral forms colonies that are either flat or dome-shaped, with its corallites having a circular, thick-walled structure. The corallites are cerioid in nature, measuring between 19 to 22 mm across. The coral's polyps have a fleshy appearance and a circular outline, often displaying colors such as pale gray, yellowish, or brown, with corallite rims that are distinctly colored. Favites rotundata thrives in tropical waters, within a depth range of 0 to 40 meters, with most occurrences found shallower than 20 meters. The species' life cycle begins with the release of mature gametes into the coelenteron, which are then spawned through the mouth. The resulting zygote develops into a planktonic planula larva, undergoing metamorphosis with the early development of tentacles, septa, and pharynx before settling on the aboral end. In terms of conservation, Favites rotundata is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. Divers encountering this coral can expect to see its distinctively colored corallite rims and fleshy polyps.