Xenia umbellata is a soft coral that grows short stalks topped with clusters of polyps whose feathery tentacles open and close rhythmically. It is usually white, cream, tan or pinkish brown. The reason for the pulsing is not fully known, and a colony that stops pulsing is not necessarily unwell. Place it on its own rock where it can spread. LiveAquaria lists xenia as moderate in care, with moderate to high light and medium to strong flow, and says aquacultured xenia are hardy and multiply fast. Some tanks it takes over; others it struggles in. Water: LiveAquaria gives dKH 8–12, pH 8.1–8.4, specific gravity 1.023–1.025 and 22–26 °C, with iodine and trace elements. Not CITES-listed. Aquacultured frags are widely available. Sources: LiveAquaria (liveaquaria.com/products/liveaquaria®-ccgc-aquacultured-silver-branch-pumping-xenia-coral). Checked October 2026.
Diet
Mainly photosynthetic and also takes up dissolved nutrients. LiveAquaria suggests weekly microplankton or filter-feeder foods.
Breeding
Very easy: cut a stalk at the base with scissors and place it in a rubble crevice or hold it down with mesh or a rubber band until it attaches. Colonies also spread by themselves.
Compatibility and tank mates
It does not sting, but it spreads fast and can overgrow neighbours, especially other soft corals. Keep it on an isolated rock and away from slow-growing corals.
Last updated 8 October 2026. Community-edited care guide on Aquatic-Auctions.
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