Xenia - “Keep on Island” or “Kill with Fire”

[PotatoPig]

So I have three soft corals that I understand can be considered invasive - Xenia, Anthelia and GSP.

GSP is on the back wall, Anthelia is on an island and Xenia is on an island.

It doesn’t seem that fast growing for now but I’ve seen a few horror stories on this lately. Is it really that invasive that a full tank takedown could be in my future to control it?

 

[Katrina71]

Well...Xenia... I seriously never had an issue with it until I did

 

[00W]

There really is no end to either one.

 

[Reefer Matt]

In my experience, Xenia can detach and find a new spot. Just something to consider.

 

[00W]

In my experience, Xenia can detach and find a new spot. Just something to consider.

Also an easy one to give away and one you can use to cover ugly spots as well.
I've always had a fondness for it although it can be a nuisance too.

 

[Reefer Matt]

Also an easy one to give away and one you can use to cover ugly spots as well.
I've always had a fondness for it although it can be a nuisance too.

I purposely got some pulsing xenia to out compete some algae and hydroids in my 36 gallon. I like them. I used to not be able to keep it. But it creates a cool show for little kids to watch too.

 

[JGT]

Love pulsing Xenia. Keep it on a rock by itself and you’ll be fine.

 

[00W]

I purposely got some pulsing xenia to out compete some algae and hydroids in my 36 gallon. I like them. I used to not be able to keep it. But it creates a cool show for little kids to watch too.

Totally agree!
I use mine as a fill in.
It makes me happy what can I say.

 

[smartwater101]

Pulsing Xenia does not "shed" like some soft corals. If you keep it on its own rock-island you shouldn't have any problems.

 

[vetteguy53081]

So I have three soft corals that I understand can be considered invasive - Xenia, Anthelia and GSP.

GSP is on the back wall, Anthelia is on an island and Xenia is on an island.

It doesn’t seem that fast growing for now but I’ve seen a few horror stories on this lately. Is it really that invasive that a full tank takedown could be in my future to control it?

I placed mine in one area and its gotten larger but caused no issues

Above the monti:

 

[randomfishdude]

Xinia detaches all the time in one of my tanks. Same as the anthill.

Some may know this picture...

 

[CMMorgan]

I had waving hand anthelia, loved it until I didn't. Out of the blue, it spawned all over my tank. Worse, when I had to remove it... it stunk. Low tide didn't smell that bad. Thinking rotting squid on a hit summers day.
I defended it for years before it betrayed me. My new build - there are GSP but not Xenia, Anthelia or Kenyan Trees.