Pulsing Xenia coral, a captivating inhabitant of saltwater aquariums, is a soft coral recognized by its unique rhythmic motion. This species features a stalk-like structure adorned with polyps, each possessing eight feathery tentacles. Its distinctive, almost mesmerizing movement has made it a popular choice among marine aquarium enthusiasts.
The Pulsing Behavior
The distinguishing characteristic of Pulsing Xenia is its rhythmic opening and closing of its polyps. Scientists have explored several theories to explain this consistent pulsing motion. One prominent idea suggests that the movement helps create localized water flow around the coral, which assists in gas exchange. This process allows the coral to efficiently remove metabolic waste products while simultaneously absorbing beneficial elements from the surrounding water.
Another hypothesis proposes that the pulsing enhances photosynthesis. By manipulating the micro-environment directly around their polyps, Xenia corals may be able to maximize light exposure or optimize the uptake of dissolved carbon dioxide. Despite ongoing research, the precise biological reason for this behavior is not yet definitively understood.
Aquarium Care and Conditions
Maintaining Pulsing Xenia requires specific environmental conditions for its health and characteristic movement. This coral generally thrives under moderate illumination, making it less demanding than some other, more light-intensive coral species. It adapts to various lighting setups, but extreme brightness is not required.
Water flow is another important factor; low to moderate flow is most suitable for Xenia. Excessive water movement can hinder or stop the pulsing motion, as the coral expends too much energy fighting the current. Finding a balance in flow helps ensure the polyps can expand and pulse freely.
Maintaining stable water parameters is also important for Xenia’s health. Consistent salinity (around 1.025 specific gravity) and stable temperatures (72-78°F / 22-26°C) are beneficial. Stable alkalinity (8-12 dKH) and pH (8.1-8.4) also contribute to its overall vigor. Pulsing Xenia consumes iodine from the water; low levels can reduce or stop its pulsing. Monitoring and supplementing iodine may be necessary if levels become depleted.
Growth and Propagation
Pulsing Xenia is well-known for its relatively rapid growth rate, which can sometimes lead to it spreading extensively within an aquarium. It often propagates through a process resembling “walking,” where the colony gradually extends its base across surfaces. The coral can also reproduce by dropping small branches or individual polyps, which then attach to new areas and establish new colonies.
To manage its potentially prolific spread, hobbyists often place the initial Xenia colony on an isolated rock in the aquarium, preventing it from encroaching on other corals or rockwork. Regular manual pruning with clean scissors can also help control its size and shape. Intentionally propagating Xenia, often called fragging, is a straightforward process. It involves cutting a stalk from the main colony and attaching the severed piece to a new frag plug or small rock using coral-safe super glue gel.