Pulsing Xenia Colony - Medium

Pulsing Xenia is a soft coral, often one of the first corals a hobbyist will keep and a classic for a reason. Its defining characteristic is the rhythmic, hypnotic pulsing of its polyps, a feature that adds a unique type of movement to a reef aquarium. The colony consists of several stalks that terminate in a crown of eight-tentacled polyps, which are typically cream, tan, or light brownish in colour.

The pulsing action of Xenia is its main attraction. The polyps will slowly and rhythmically open and close in a mesmerising display. The rate and intensity of this pulsing can vary depending on water conditions, particularly flow and available light. In a healthy colony, this coordinated movement across dozens of polyps is quite a sight. When the lights go out, the polyps retract tightly against the stalk.

Pulsing Xenia is known for being very hardy and is not demanding in its care requirements. It prefers moderate lighting, in the 100 to 200 PAR range, and relatively low to moderate water flow, as strong currents will inhibit the pulsing motion. It thrives in typical reef water parameters and is more tolerant of nutrient fluctuations than many other corals. While photosynthetic, it also effectively absorbs dissolved organic nutrients from the water column, meaning no direct feeding is necessary. Due to its fast growth, it can be an effective method of nutrient export.

The most important consideration for keeping Xenia is managing its growth. It is a very fast-growing coral that can spread over rock, glass, and equipment, and it will overgrow any stationary corals in its path. For this reason, many reefers choose to place it on an isolated rock on the sandbed, creating a dedicated "Xenia island" that can be easily controlled and pruned back as needed.

This is not a WYSIWYG listing; you'll receive a specimen of the same species with similar size and colouration to the one pictured, hand-picked for health and colour.

We take livestock seriously. That's why we don't sell anything we wouldn't be comfortable putting in our own tank.

As we are direct from source, we import and sell direct to the public. This means you can buy with confidence knowing EMA prides itself on excellent handling and conditioning protocols.

Fish

All our fish held in a quarantine system for a minimum of 3 weeks. During this time, regular water changes are performed, and twice daily (or sometimes more) feedings are performed.

Copper is dosed and checked twice a day for ich and velvet.

During this treatment fish are given formalin baths for brooklynella and a minimum of 3 praziquantel doses is performed for flukes.

Coral

Our coral is quarantined for a minimum of 3 weeks, just like fish. During this time, regular water changes are performed, water testing done, and once a month a Fauna Marin ICP Total is performed.

Corals are inspected for pests/general health and are provided with a pest dip once a week for at least 3 weeks.

If we see signs of pests, the quarantine period is extended and/or additional dips are performed

If coral is bleached/unhealthy, it will remain in quarantine until healthy enough to sell.