Pom Pom Xenia Coral Frag

Pom Pom Xenia Coral Frag – Long Format Care Guide

Available for Local Pickup in store

 

Scientific Name: Xenia spp.
Common Names: Pulsing Xenia, Pom-Pom Coral, Pulse Coral

 

Appearance

Pulsing Xenia is one of the most captivating soft corals, famous for its constant, rhythmic “pulsing” motion. Each stalk grows upward with feather-like polyps that open and close in a pulsing manner, creating mesmerizing movement in the reef tank. The coral usually displays shades of pale pink, tan, cream, or silver, with some strains showing bluish or metallic tones under reef lighting.

The pulsing action is unique to this coral and not caused by water flow — it’s a natural movement thought to help with feeding or respiration.

 

Size

• Frag size: Typically 1–3 stalks, 2–5 cm tall.

• Colony size: Can grow rapidly into large mats covering rocks. Colonies may reach 12"+ in height.

• Growth rate: Fast under stable, nutrient-rich conditions; may spread aggressively.

 

Temperament & Reef Compatibility

• Temperament: Peaceful (no stinging tentacles).

• Reef Safe: Yes, safe with fish and inverts.

• Caution: Can spread invasively if unchecked, overtaking rocks and nearby corals. Best kept on an isolated rock “island” to control growth.

 

Lighting Requirements

• Thrives in low to moderate light.

• Adapts well to various lighting setups (LED, T5, PC).

• Too much intense light may cause bleaching or reduce pulsing activity.

 

Flow Requirements

• Prefers low to moderate flow.

• Strong direct flow can inhibit pulsing and prevent polyps from expanding fully.

• Gentle currents are ideal, allowing colonies to sway naturally while still showcasing their pulsing behavior.

 

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)

• Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG

• pH: 8.1–8.4

• Alkalinity: 8–10 dKH

• Calcium: 380–450 ppm

• Magnesium: 1200–1350 ppm

• Nitrate: 5–20 ppm

• Phosphate: 0.03–0.1 ppm

Note: Pulsing Xenia often declines in ultra-low nutrient systems (ULNS). It thrives in tanks with a bit of nitrate and phosphate present.

 

Feeding & Nutrition

• Photosynthetic: Relies primarily on its symbiotic zooxanthellae.

• Supplemental Feeding: Not required but can absorb dissolved organics and benefit from occasional phytoplankton or liquid coral foods.

• In nutrient-rich tanks, they often grow faster without additional feeding.

 

Placement in Aquarium

• Place on an isolated rock island in the sandbed or mid-level areas to prevent spreading onto the main reef.

• Avoid placing near delicate corals, as Xenia can grow over them and smother them.

• Best displayed where their pulsing motion can be appreciated.

 

Growth & Propagation

• Growth rate: Fast; can multiply rapidly.

• Propagation: Very easy.

  • Simply cut or pinch off a stalk and reattach it to a frag plug or rock using a rubber band, netting, or coral glue.

  • Detached pieces often drift and reattach themselves elsewhere.

 

Behavior & Observations

• Pulsing is strongest in healthy colonies; lack of pulsing may indicate stress, poor water conditions, or too much flow.

• May “melt” back temporarily but often regrows if conditions improve.

• Can become invasive in nutrient-rich tanks, requiring pruning or isolation.

 

Maintenance Tips

• Regular pruning helps control spread.

• Keep water nutrients at moderate levels — some nitrate and phosphate are beneficial.

• Monitor for “weed-like” growth if not isolated.

• Very hardy but sensitive to sudden parameter swings.

 

Summary:
Pulsing Xenia is a hardy, beginner-friendly soft coral that brings unique, constant motion to the aquarium. Thriving in moderate light, low–moderate flow, and slightly nutrient-rich water, it grows rapidly and spreads easily. Its pulsing polyps make it one of the most mesmerizing and interactive corals in reefkeeping.

 

Fun Facts:

• Pulsing Xenia’s rhythmic movement is unique — no other coral pulses like this.

• The reason for pulsing is debated: some scientists believe it helps respiration, nutrient uptake, or prevents sediment buildup.

• In some tanks, it grows so quickly that it’s jokingly called the “weed” of the reef hobby — but many aquarists love it for exactly that reason!