Xenia changing fron green to brown

[tony_caliente]

I have some very healthy and growing xenia that was a bright green when I bought it. It has grown in length and height but is more brown then green. Can this color change be explained? It looks healthier and more alive then ever.

 

[dakota9]

I've never seen green Xenia personally, sounds cool. Probably a change in lighting from the time you have had it....

 

[cr500_af]

My experience has been this: Soft corals getting taller and browning generally means they need more light, hence they grow taller as they 'stretch' upwards to reach it.

However, T5s on a 55 should be more than enough light for any softies, at any depth in the tank. Was the Xenia under something stronger before you got it? Thinking maybe that it just needs to readjust?

 

[dakota9]

If you have a pic of the green Xenia, I'd like to see it.

 

[tony_caliente]

In fact, now that I think about it, I believe these are star polyps (maybe same as xenia.. I don't know):doh:

 

[cr500_af]

Yeah, that's GSP. Not related to Xenia, but just as hardy. It turning brown is something I've never seen before, but maybe somebody can get to the bottom of it.

 

[tony_caliente]

I don't remember. They are in the middle of my tank (a standard 55). I will elevate and see what happens. The bulbs were brand new (so now 2 months old) Thank you.

 

[cr500_af]

No need.... GSP should grow anywhere short of underneath the rocks. Somebody can point you in the right direction, I'm sure.

 

[dakota9]

What type of lighting were they accustomed before you had it, might be a case of you giving it much more light than it was used to.

 

[tony_caliente]

I can try moving it down. I will give that a shot. It does look healthy and growing,
Thanks for the advice!

 

[jennm]

They can change for a variety of reasons - I've seen colonies become two-toned (from all green to one side of the colony green, the other pink), or change colors completely.

I'm not sure exactly why but could have to do with a variety of factors, including the coral's diet, the presence of trace elements etc.

The colony appears healthy, just has changed colors.

Jenn

 

[spike]

I also happened to some of my gsp. Never knew why, but after awhile it did turn back to green. Several months later.

 

[tony_caliente]

Some sections are green and some are brownish green - as I mentioned - it looks full and healthy. Thanks for the tips!