Description
Pulsing Xenia (Heteroxenia fuscescens) is a soft coral known for its rhythmic, pulsing movement and feathery polyps. It has long, sturdy stalks adorned with feathery tentacles that pulse, opening and closing in a "pumping" fashion, adding movement to the reef tank. Pulsing Xenia is a fast grower and a popular choice for reef tanks, both for beginners and experienced hobbyists.
Here's a more detailed description:
Appearance:
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Stalks:
Pulsing Xenia features long, sturdy stalks.
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Polyps:
The stalks are topped with feathery polyps (tentacles) that pulse in a rhythmic, opening and closing motion.
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Colors:
Pulsing Xenia can come in a variety of colors, including lavender, cream, pink, and purple.
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Growth:
It's known for its rapid growth rate, which can quickly cover rock surfaces.
Movement:
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Pulsing:
The most distinctive feature of Pulsing Xenia is its rhythmic pulsing movement of the polyps, which can reach up to 40 pulses per minute.
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Water Movement:
The pulsing action helps to create water movement around the coral, aiding in nutrient exchange.
Other Notable Features:
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Fast Growth:
Pulsing Xenia is a fast-growing coral, making it a good choice for beginners who are looking for a coral that will quickly fill up the tank.
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Easy Care:
It's relatively easy to care for, thriving in a variety of reef tank conditions.
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Photosynthesis:
Pulsing Xenia is a photosynthetic coral, meaning it can produce its own food through sunlight, but it also absorbs nutrients from the water.
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Propogation:
It can be easily propagated in captivity
