Favites stylifera

Favites stylifera is a coral species belonging to the family Merulinidae, commonly found in the Indo-West Pacific region. It thrives in tropical waters, specifically between latitudes 30°N and 26°S and longitudes 95°E to 154°E. This coral is typically associated with reef environments, where it inhabits depths ranging from 0 to 40 meters. Its colonies are encrusting to submassive in form, with corallites that are irregularly shaped and measure between 3 to 6 mm in diameter. The septa of Favites stylifera are few, highly contorted, and feature irregular teeth, with a weakly developed paliform crown. The coral is generally pale brown in color, sometimes exhibiting green oral discs. Favites stylifera is found predominantly on upper reef slopes, where it forms part of the diverse coral community. As a member of the class Anthozoa, this coral can be either gonochoric or hermaphroditic. Its reproductive process involves the shedding of mature gametes into the coelenteron, followed by spawning through the mouth. The resulting zygote develops into a planktonic planula larva, which undergoes metamorphosis, forming tentacles, septa, and a pharynx before settling on the aboral end. Divers encountering Favites stylifera will find it to be a sessile, colonial organism that contributes to the reef's structure and biodiversity. Its conservation status is listed as Least Concern according to the IUCN Red List, and it is included in CITES Appendix II.