Pavona maldivensis

Pavona maldivensis is a colonial stony coral that divers can encounter in tropical regions of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. This species is versatile in its growth forms, appearing either as encrusting or massive structures, and often forming clumps that can reach over a metre in diameter. However, colonies smaller than 30 cm are more typical. In areas with strong water movement, it tends to develop cylindrical, finger-like growths, whereas in calmer waters, it may form horizontal plates with leafy edges. Its coloration ranges from greyish-brown or green to a bright orange, the latter due to the presence of a photosynthetic pigment called phycoerythrin, which gives the coral a distinctive fluorescence under daylight. Pavona maldivensis thrives on shallow reef slopes, particularly those exposed to strong wave action, and can also be found on vertical surfaces and deeper reef slopes, at depths ranging from the surface to 40 meters. It is a zooxanthellate coral, meaning it has a symbiotic relationship with algae that reside within its tissues, supplying it with nutrients through photosynthesis. This coral species reproduces by shedding gametes into the water, where fertilization occurs, and the resulting larvae settle on suitable substrates to grow into new colonies. Divers exploring regions from the Red Sea to the western Pacific may encounter Pavona maldivensis on reef walls and slopes. Its presence adds to the biodiversity of these underwater ecosystems. The species is currently assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.