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Coral Guide |  |
Family: Xeniidae (Octocorals)
Habitat: Found in less turbulent waters than other xeniids. It is often found on dead corals or the undersides of rocks.
Light: High Water Flow: High Space: 10+ gal.
Reef Safe: Yes Care Level: Moderate Temperament: Caution
Diet: The octocorals are generally polytrophic - getting nutrition from zooxanthellae (algae) in their tissues, nutrient uptake from the seawater, and feeding on microplankton.
Natural History: Some Anthelia are able to pulse like some of the Xenias. They are rarely on reef flats due to the intense competion from other Xeniids. The Antheliids are relatively nontoxic and less able to compete for space than other corals.
Husbandry: The Anthelia are hardier and less prone to crashes than the other Xeniids. They likely feed on microplankton and their internal zooxanthellae. They prefer moderately strong current and bright light. They are aggressive through growth - they may overgrow other corals. Colonies can cover an entire aquarium.
AKA: Waving-hand Coral, Glove Coral, Pulse Coral