Pulsing Xenia Coral

Xenia elongata is beloved for its hypnotic pulsing polyps that rhythmically open and close in a mesmerising display believed to aid gas exchange and nutrient uptake. Growing in tall stalked colonies with eight-branched pinnate polyps, it adds living movement to any reef aquarium and is nearly indestructible under suitable conditions. Healthy Xenia can spread aggressively across rockwork — place on isolated rubble to control expansion.

Moderate light, moderate flow. pH 8.1–8.4, salinity 1.023–1.025, temperature 24–27°C. Iodine and strontium supplementation associated with robust pulsing. Stable parameters essential — Xenia is sensitive to rapid parameter swings despite its reputation for toughness. Place on isolated rubble; can be removed from rock surfaces but regrows quickly. Frag by detaching branches.