831 species

Pavona gigantea

Verrill, 1869

Pavona

Lamarck, 1801

Characters: Colonies are massive. Corallites have thick walls and are well defined. Septo-costae are in two indistinct orders. Columellae are well developed. Tentacles are extended during the day giving colonies a furry appearance.

Colour: Green, grey and brown.

Similar Species: Pavona explanulata, which has similar corallite structures, but does not form massive colonies. See also Pavona decussata.

Habitat: Occurs on shallow protected rocky substrates.

Abundance: Uncommon.

Taxonomic References: Wells (1983); Veron (2000a);

COTW History since Veron (2000a)
  • Family: All families are currently under review
  • Genus/species: No change