Pulse Coral
Xenia umbellata · ZEE-nee-a um-bel-AH-ta
Not Evaluated
Friendly
Superpower
Rhythmically opens and closes its hand-like polyps, as if clapping underwater.
At a glance
- Size
- typically 5 cm, up to 20 cm
- Depth
- 1–20 m
Habitat
Sheltered reef flats and lagoons.
Diet
Largely powered by symbiotic algae; absorbs nutrients from the water.
Can I eat it?
No — this one is not eaten.
Fun facts
- Its polyps pulse open and closed in a constant beat.
- Scientists still debate exactly why it pulses.
- It can spread quickly across a reef.