Heteroxenia fuscescens

Alternative names

 * Pulsating Xenia, Pumping Xenia

Tank compatibility

 * These animals are said to peaceful and not posses any type of poison or toxins. Although these animals reproduce quickly so 4-5 inches of space should be provided between other corals. Also may shadow other corals.

Diet

 * Xenia contain zooxanthellae (symbiotic algae) and are therefore photosynthetic. However, they will benefit from occasional feedings of plankton and baby brine shrimp.

Feeding regime

 * Supplemental feed once a week or so.

Environment Specifics

 * This coral can be sensitive to water conditions. It needs medium (200 to 250PAR) lighting with reasonable current. It also will require the addition of iodine, and other trace elements to the water.

Behaviour

 * This coral is a good barometer if the water conditions in captivity have problems, it will close up and contract into itself.

Identification

 * These grey/purple corals grow in crevaces on rockwork, on glass and where every you don't want them.