More info
Xenia elongata - Pulsing Xenia
Xenia are one of the few corals that have a constant pulsing motion. It makes them one of the most eye-catching corals in a reef tank. The purpose of their pulsing behavior is not well understood but the prevailing sentiment is the corals pulse to increase flow around the colony and maximize surface area for photosynthesis. Xenia are also one of the fastest growing soft corals making them a great coral for beginners on one hand but opening up the possibility of rapid infestation on the other. Despite their growth rate issues, they remain one of the most popular corals amongst reef aquarists in the hobby. Please see below for additional care tips for Xenia.
Location
Indo-Pacific - Islands of the Indo-Pacific including Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef.
Lightning
Xenia are adaptable to a wide range of lighting. If you have particularly intense lighting, we recommend starting the corals in lower light areas to allow them time to adjust.
Low Light |
Low light translates to about 30-50 PAR |
Medium Light |
Medium Light is between 50-150 PAR |
|
High light |
High Light is anything over 150 PAR |
Water Flow
Low water movement is recommended. Xenia's pulsing motion is an adaptation to provide water movement. The more water flow provided, the less these corals pulse on their own. Xenia derives much of its energy from the products of their zooxanthellae.
Feeding
Xenia derives much of its energy from the products of their zooxanthellae. It is not known to actively "feed" on anything, but rather passively absorb dissolved organics from the water column directly through its "skin."
