Pulsing Xenia

Xenia umbellata is the pulsing xenia most people picture when they hear the name — rhythmically contracting umbrella-shaped polyps that are borderline hypnotic to watch. Mid-tank under moderate light with gentle, non-turbulent flow is where it performs best; it pulses most actively in stable, slightly elevated pH conditions. The challenge isn't keeping it alive — it's keeping it contained; pulsing xenia spreads aggressively and will colonize adjacent rock with zero hesitation. Don't target feed; focus instead on keeping iodine and other trace elements replenished through regular water changes, which is what actually drives its growth.