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Pulsing Xenia
BeginnerXenia sp.
Unique soft coral with pulsing polyps that rhythmically open and close. Mesmerizing movement. Hardy and proliferates quickly.
Difficulty
Beginner
Temperature
24〜27℃
Lifespan
10+ years with proper care
Diet
Primarily photosynthesis
About
Xenia (genus Xenia, family Xeniidae) is a soft coral celebrated for the rhythmic pulsing motion of its flower-like polyps, which open and close continuously to enhance photosynthetic efficiency—enabling the coral to generate its own water circulation even in calm conditions. Widely distributed on reef slopes of the Indian Ocean, Red Sea, and Pacific, xenia thrives under moderate lighting (150–250 PAR) with gentle to moderate flow. It prefers low-nutrient, clean water; high nitrates suppress its pulsing and growth. Its exceptional reproductive rate demands regular pruning to prevent tank domination, but this very quality makes it a popular and engaging beginner coral.
Basic Info
Origin
reef slopes of the Indian Ocean, Red Sea, and Pacific
Lifespan
10+ years with proper care
Temperature
24〜27℃
Diet
Primarily photosynthesis
Care Guide
Lighting
Moderate
Flow
Low to moderate
Water Quality
Sometimes thrives better in slightly nutrient-rich water
Propagation
Very fast — can overtake rockwork
Care Specifications
- Carbonate (KH)
- 8–12 dKH
- Water Temp.
- 24–27℃
- Specific Gravity
- 1.023–1.025
- Salinity
- 33–35 ppt
Soft coralLight: Medium (PAR 50-150)Flow: MediumPlacement: Flexible
Sources: AlgaeBarn: SPS/LPS/soft care / AlgaeBarn: Water Parameters 101
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: br-choku editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Xenia sp. Lamarck, 1816
Synonyms: Actinantha, Loridella, Wardella, Xaenia
Authority databases: WoRMS
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not CITES-listed
八放サンゴ(Xenia, Xeniidae=パルスコーラル)。和名キサンゴは俗称、学名は八放サンゴ ソフトコーラル=CITES 非掲載。
Sources: DOC NZ / CITES-listed corals(掲載科に Xeniidae 含まず)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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