Anthiinae :
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Anthias are members of the family Serranidae (basses, basslets, groupers) and make up the subfamily Anthiinae. Anthias make up a sizeable portion of the population of pink, orange, and yellow reef fishes seen swarming in most coral reef photography and film
Anthias are mostly small, thus are quite popular within the ornamental fish trade. They form complex social structures based on the number of males and females and also their position on the reef itself, and are mainly zooplankton feeders. They occur in all tropical oceans and seas of the world. The first species recognized in this group was described in the Mediterranean and northeast Atlantic and was given name Anthias anthias by Carolus Linnaeus in 1758.
Anthias can shoal by the thousands. Anthias do school in these large groups, though they tend toward more intimate subdivisions within the school, appropriately called "harems". These consist of one dominant, colorful male, and two to 12 females — which have their own hierarchy among them — and up to two 'subdominant' males, often less brightly colored and not territorial. Within the swarm of females, territorial males perform acrobatic U-swim displays and vigorously defend an area of the reef and its associated harem.
Anthias are protogynous hermaphrodites. All anthias are born female; if a dominant male perishes, the largest female of the group will often change into a male to take its place. This may lead to squabbling between the next-largest male, which sees an opportunity to advance, and the largest female, whose hormones are surging with testosterone.
Seven genera of anthias are known to occur in coral reef ecosystems: Holanthias, Luzonichthys,Nemanthias, Plectranthias, Pseudanthias, Rabaulichthys, and Serranocirrhitus. Members of all these genera make it into the aquarium trade, although Pseudanthias is by far the most encountered in the hobby.
Anthias Fish
Species :
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Genus Anatolanthias
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Genus Anthias
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Genus Caesioperca
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Butterfly perch, C. lepidoptera (Forster, 1801)
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Genus Caprodon
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Pink maomao, C. longimanus (Günther, 1859)
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Genus Dactylanthias
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Genus Giganthias
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Genus Hemanthias
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Genus Holanthias
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Genus Hypoplectrodes
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Genus Lepidoperca
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Genus Luzonichthys
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Genus Meganthias
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Genus Nemanthias
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Genus Odontanthias
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Genus Othos
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Genus Plectranthias
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Genus Pronotogrammus
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Genus Pseudanthias
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Sea goldie, P. squamipinnis
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Genus Rabaulichthys
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Genus Sacura
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Genus Selenanthias
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Genus Serranocirrhitus
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Genus Tosana
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Genus Tosanoides
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Genus Trachypoma
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Toadstool groper, T. macracanthus Günther, 1859
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1- Lyretail Anthias
Pseudanthias squamipinnis
Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 5"
Color Form: Orange, Red
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Fiji, Indonesia, Vanuatu
Family: Serranidae
The Lyretail Anthias is the social butterfly of marine aquariums. This eye-catching fish is incredibly active and helps draw out shier fish that share the aquarium. The Lyretail Anthias is also known as the Scalefin and the males have bright red coloration of varying hues while the female Lyretail Anthias tends to be more orange in coloration.
The Lyretail Anthias does best when kept in a group and housed in a species-specific aquarium of at least 125 gallons in size. Male Lyretail Anthias are best kept alone or with several females. Though the Lyretail Anthias generally occupy the middle of the aquarium, it appreciates the availability of several hiding places.
Anthias species all share the trait of being hermaphroditic. If a dominant male perishes, the largest female of the group will often develop into a male to take his place.
Once acclimated to a new aquarium, anthias do best when fed a varied diet of frozen mysis shrimp, enriched frozen brine shrimp, and over time may eat high-quality flake foods offered in small quantities throughout the day. An attached refugium cultivating copepods and amphipods provides a steady supply of nutritious live food sure to keep this active planktivore content.
Approximate Purchase Size: Small: 1-1/2" to 2" Medium: 2" to 3" Large: 3" to 4-1/2"
2-Indian Ocean Lyretail Anthias
Pseudanthias squamipinnis
Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 5"
Color Form: Orange, Red
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Maldives
Family: Serranidae
Male
Female
The Indian Ocean Lyretail Anthias is also known as the Scalefin. The males have reddish hues, while the females tend to be more orange. They are active and help to draw out shier fish that share the tank with them.
The Indian Ocean Lyretail Anthias does best when kept in a species-specific tank of at least 125-gallons for a group. Males are best kept alone with several females, or singly. The Anthias dwells in the middle of a tank but appreciates the availability of several hiding places.
Anthias species all share the trait of being hermaphroditic. If a dominant male perishes, the largest female of the group will often morph to take its place.
Once acclimated to a new aquarium, anthias do best when fed a varied diet of frozen mysis shrimp, enriched frozen brine shrimp, and over time may eat high-quality flake foods offered in small quantities throughout the day. An attached refugium cultivating copepods and amphipods provides a steady supply of nutritious live food sure to keep this active planktivore content.
Approximate Purchase Size: Female: Small 3/4" to 1-1/4", Medium 1-1/4" to 2", Large 2" to 3"; Male: Small 2" to 2-1/2", Medium 2-1/2" to 3" Large 3" to 4"
3-Bartlett's Anthias
Pseudanthias bartlettorum
Minimum Tank Size: 70 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 3½"
Color Form: Orange, Purple, Red, Yellow
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Marshall Islands
Family: Serranidae
The Bartlett's Anthias is also known as the Bartletts Fairy Bass. The males have a more intense coloration with a violet body and yellow running along the back through the upper caudal lobe. The females tend to be lavender in color with a yellow back and caudal fin.
The Bartlett's Anthias does best when kept with its own species in a tank of at least 70 gallons, but is also a beautiful fish for the fish only, invertebrate, or reef aquarium. The Anthias dwells in the middle of a tank but appreciates the availability of several hiding places.
Anthias species all share the trait of being hermaphroditic. If a dominant male perishes, the largest female of the group will often morph to take its place.
Once acclimated to a new aquarium, Anthias do best when fed a varied diet of frozen mysis shrimp, enriched frozen brine shrimp, and over time may eat high-quality flake foods offered in small quantities throughout the day. An attached refugium cultivating copepods and amphipods provides a steady supply of nutritious live food sure to keep this active planktivore content.
At this time we are unable to offer Bartlett Anthias by specific gender, and unfortunately cannot guarantee specific quantities of males or females. This species is purchased from the supplier overseas in quantities and not by gender, so we have available for sale what is currently harvested. Enthusiasts who wish to purchase a male and several females, please visit the Diver's Den section for harems of these fish as well as other Anthias species.
Approximate Purchase Size: Small 1" to 1-1/2", Medium 1-1/2" to 2", Large 2" to 3"
4- Carberryi Anthias
Nemanthias carberryi
Minimum Tank Size: 70 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 3"
Color Form: Black, Orange, Purple, Yellow
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Africa, Maldives
Family: Serranidae
The Carberryi Anthias is also known as the Threadfin Anthias and comes from the reefs of the Maldives and is a very striking fish. These Anthias are purple on the head and abdomen area and the back and tail are yellow. They are very active and help to draw out shier fish that share the tank with them.
The Carberryi Anthias does best when kept in a species-specific tank of at least 70-gallons for a group. The Anthias dwells in the middle of a tank but appreciates the availability of several hiding places.
Anthias species all share the trait of being hermaphroditic. If a dominant male perishes, the largest female of the group will often morph to take its place.
Once acclimated to a new aquarium, Anthias do best when fed a varied diet of enriched frozen mysis shrimp, enriched frozen brine shrimp, and over time may eat high-quality flake foods offered in small quantities throughout the day. An attached refugium cultivating copepods and amphipods provides a steady supply of nutritious live food sure to keep this active planktivore content.
Approximate Purchase Size: Small: 1-1/4" to 1-3/4" Medium: 1-3/4" to 2-1/4" Large: 2-1/4" to 3"
5-Dispar Anthias
Pseudanthias dispar
Minimum Tank Size: 70 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 4"
Color Form: Orange, Purple, Red, White, Yellow
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Fiji, Indonesia, Maldives, Solomon Islands
Family: Serranidae
The Dispar Anthias is commonly known as the Madder Seaperch. Males have a bright red dorsal fin and lack any red stripes on their tail. The female may display a yellowish-orange on the top and pale lavender to white on the underside.
The Dispar Anthias is a reef inhabitant in the wild. It is a shallow water species that thrives best in a 125 gallon aquarium with one male and up to ten females. When housed singly, 70 gallon tank is sufficient.
Anthias species all share the trait of being hermaphroditic. If a dominant male perishes, the largest female of the group will often morph to take its place.
Once acclimated to a new aquarium, anthias do best when fed a varied diet of frozen mysis shrimp, enriched frozen brine shrimp, and over time may eat high-quality flake foods offered in small quantities throughout the day. An attached refugium cultivating copepods and amphipods provides a steady supply of nutritious live food sure to keep this active planktivore content.
Approximate Purchase Size: Small 1-1/2" to 2"; Medium 2" to 3"; Large 3" to 4"
6-Ignitus Anthias
Pseudanthias ignitus
Minimum Tank Size: 70 gallons
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 3½"
Color Form: Orange, Red, Yellow
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Maldives
Family: Serranidae
The Ignitus Anthias from the Maldives is also appropriately called the Flame Anthias. Gorgeous gradations of fiery reds, bold oranges, and vibrant yellows of the Ignitus Anthias add color and vitality to the FOWLR or reef aquarium.
The Ignitus Anthias is a reef inhabitant in the wild. It is a shallow water species that thrives best in a 125 gallon aquarium with one male and up to ten females. When housed singly, 70 gallon tank is sufficient.
Anthias species all share the trait of being hermaphroditic. If a dominant male perishes, the largest female of the group will often morph to take its place. When courting, the coloration of the male Ignitus Anthias intensifies greatly and the bright red dorsal fin is held in an upright fashion.
Once acclimated to a new aquarium, anthias do best when fed a varied diet of frozen mysis shrimp, enriched frozen brine shrimp, and over time may eat high-quality flake foods offered in small quantities throughout the day. An attached refugium cultivating copepods and amphipods provides a steady supply of nutritious live food sure to keep this active planktivore content.
Approximate Purchase Size: Small: 3/4" - 1-1/4"; Medium: 1-1/2" - 2-1/2"; Large: 2-1/2" - 3"
7-Pictilis Anthias
Pseudanthias pictilis
Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 6"
Color Form: Blue, Orange, Red
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Australia, Melanesia, Tonga
Family: Serranidae
Also referred to as the Painted Goldie, the Pictilis Anthias is pinkish-blue, with a large blue oval on the caudal fin, and bright orange-red coloration on the rear 1/3 of the body.
One of the larger Anthias species, Pictilis do well with only a single male in a tank with a small group of females of the same species. Although a 125 gallon tank will suffice for one fish, if keeping a group, you may need up to a 180 gallon tank or even larger for best success. Pictilis Anthias prefer a tank with multiple hiding places and caves, and initially prefers lower lighting conditions as they are found in moderately deep water.
Anthias species all share the trait of being hermaphroditic. If a dominant male perishes, the largest female of the group will often morph to take its place.
Once acclimated to a new aquarium, anthias do best when fed a varied diet of frozen mysis shrimp, enriched frozen brine shrimp, and over time may eat high-quality flake foods offered in small quantities throughout the day. An attached refugium cultivating copepods and amphipods provides a steady supply of nutritious live food sure to keep this active planktivore content.
Approximate Purchase Size: Small: 1-1/2" to 2-1/4" Medium: 2-1/4" to 3-1/4" Large: 3-1/4" to 4-1/2" Xlarge: 4-1/2" to 5"
8-Sunset Anthias
Pseudanthias parvirostris
Minimum Tank Size: 70 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.0-8.4, sg 1.021-1.025
Max. Size: 3"
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Maldives
A fish with many color variations, Sunset Anthias is also known as a Shortsnout, Diadem. One of the more common color variations is predominantly yellow highlighted with red on the anal and caudal fins. In the wild, Shortsnouts are often found in schools, swimming at depths of 200 feet and so do well in an aquarium with similar tank mates.
Sunset Anthias generally stay in the middle levels of the tank, but also require plenty of caves, ledges, and other hiding places. A 75 gallon tank will suffice for one fish, if keeping a group of one male and several females, a 125 gallon tank or larger tank is needed.
Anthias species all share the trait of being hermaphroditic. If a dominant male perishes, the largest female of the group will often morph to take its place.
Once acclimated to a new aquarium, Anthias do best when fed a varied diet of frozen mysis shrimp, enriched frozen brine shrimp, and over time may eat high-quality flake foods offered in small quantities throughout the day. An attached refugium cultivating copepods and amphipods provides a steady supply of nutritious live food sure to keep this active planktivore content.
Approximate Purchase Size: 1-1/4" to 2-3/4"
9-Evansi Anthias
Pseudanthias evansi
Minimum Tank Size: 70 gallons
Care Level: Moderate - Difficult
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 4"
Color Form: Orange, Pink, Purple, Yellow
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Maldives, Sri Lanka
Family: Serranidae
A bright and colorful marine fish, the Evansi Anthias is also known as the Yellowtail Goldie or Evan's Anthias. It is predominantly violet, the flanks are sprinkled with yellow dots, and an orange line runs laterally from nose to pectoral fin.
With a peaceful nature, this fish does well with other non-aggressive fish of the same variety. If keeping more than one Evansi, it is best to have one male with several females in a 125 gallon tank. If kept alone, a 75 gallon tank is sufficient.
Anthias species all share the trait of being hermaphroditic. If a dominant male perishes, the largest female of the group will often morph to take its place.
Once acclimated to a new aquarium, anthias do best when fed a varied diet of frozen mysis shrimp, enriched frozen brine shrimp, and over time may eat high-quality flake foods offered in small quantities throughout the day. An attached refugium cultivating copepods and amphipods provides a steady supply of nutritious live food sure to keep this active planktivore content.
The Evansi Anthias can be difficult to maintain and is not appropriate for the inexperienced aquarist.
Approximate Purchase Size: Small: 1-1/4" to 2"; Medium: 2" to 3"; Large: 3" to 4"
10-Stocky Anthias
Pseudanthias hypselosoma
Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 7"
Color Form: Orange, Yellow
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Australia, Fiji, New Caledonia
Family: Serranidae
The Stocky Anthias makes a beautiful addition to the fish-only, invertebrate, or reef aquarium. As its name suggests, this Anthias is slightly broader and shorter in morphology. Males are adorned with an orange back, yellow lines, and a cream-colored underside.
The Stocky Anthias does best when kept with its own species in a tank of at least 125 gallons. In their natural habitat, Anthias inhabit well-protected reefs of lagoons and bays. In the home aquarium, Anthias typically dwells in the middle of a tank but appreciates the availability of several hiding places.
Anthias species all share the trait of being hermaphroditic. If a dominant male perishes, the largest female of the group will often morph to take its place.
Once acclimated to a new aquarium, Anthias do best when fed a varied diet of frozen mysis shrimp, enriched frozen brine shrimp, and over time may eat high-quality flake foods offered in small quantities throughout the day. An attached refugium cultivating copepods and amphipods provides a steady supply of nutritious live food sure to keep this active planktivore content.
Approximate Purchase Size: Small: 1-1/2" to 2-1/4" Medium: 2-1/4" to 4" Large: 4" to 6"
11-Squareback Anthias
Pseudanthias pleurotaenia
Minimum Tank Size: 70 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 4"
Color Form: Orange, Purple, Red
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Fiji, Indonesia, Vanuatu
Family: Serranidae
Due to its unique color variation, the Squareback Anthias is also known as the Squarespot, Purple Blotch Basslet, Squareblock, Square, or Mirror Anthias. The body of the female is predominantly yellow with a lavender belly, and often a thin blue line extending from nose to pectoral fin. Males are predominantly pink with a lavender belly and have a lighter rectangular shape on the side.
This variety of Anthias does best in an aquarium with low, indirect lighting or its brilliant colors will fade. Although preferring to remain at the mid-tank level, they have been found at depths up to 600 feet in the wild. A 70 gallon tank will suffice for one fish, however, if keeping a group, a 125 gallon tank should be used since the Squareback Anthias appreciates plenty of room to swim.
Anthias species all share the trait of being hermaphroditic. If a dominant male perishes, the largest female of the group will often morph to take its place.
Once acclimated to a new aquarium, Anthias do best when fed a varied diet of frozen mysis shrimp, enriched frozen brine shrimp, and over time may eat high-quality flake foods offered in small quantities throughout the day. An attached refugium cultivating copepods and amphipods provides a steady supply of nutritious live food sure to keep this active planktivore content.
Approximate Purchase Size: Small: 1-1/2" to 2-1/4"; Medium: 2-1/4" to 2-3/4"; Medium/Large: 2-3/4" to 3-1/4" Large: 3-1/4" to 4"
12-Resplendent Anthias
Pseudanthias pulcherrimus
Minimum Tank Size: 70 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 3"
Color Form: Orange, Purple, Red, Yellow
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Indonesia, Maldives
Family: Serranidae
The Resplendent Anthias is also known as the Tierra Anthias or the Resplendent Goldie. One of the more common color variations is predominantly yellow highlighted with red on the anal and caudal fins. The body of the female is predominantly orange with a pink/purple hue and a yellow nose, dorsal fin and tail fin. Males are predominantly orange with the same pink/purple hue but have an almost clear tail and deep pink edges on their pectoral fins.
Resplendent Anthias generally stay in the middle levels of the tank, but also require plenty of caves, ledges, and other hiding places. Although a 70-gallon tank will suffice for one fish, if keeping a group of one male and several females, a 125-gallon tank or larger tank is needed.
Anthias species all share the trait of being hermaphroditic. If a dominant male perishes, the largest female of the group will often morph to take its place.
Once acclimated to a new aquarium, Anthias do best when fed a varied diet of frozen mysis shrimp, enriched frozen brine shrimp, and over time may eat high-quality flake foods offered in small quantities throughout the day. An attached refugium cultivating copepods and amphipods provides a steady supply of nutritious live food sure to keep this active planktivore content.
Approximate Purchase Size: Male: 1-1/4" to 2-3/4" Female: Small 1 1/4" to 1 3/4" Medium 1 3/4" to 2 1/2"
13-Huchtii Anthias
Pseudanthias huchtii
Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 4¾"
Color Form: Blue, Orange, Yellow
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Australia, Indonesia, Vanuatu
Family: Serranidae
The Huchtii Anthias is also known as the Redcheek or Green Anthias, and originates within the reefs of Cebu and the Solomon Islands. The males are yellowish green in color with an orange stripe located just behind the eye. Their fins are outlined in an electric blue color that gives the fish a very dramatic look. The females are not as brightly colored as the males and share the same orange stripe behind the eye. They are an active species, and help to draw out shier fish within the aquarium.
The Huchtii Anthias does best when kept in an aquarium of at least 125 gallons in groups. The Anthias dwells in the middle of the aquarium but appreciates the availability of several hiding places.
Anthias species all share the trait of being hermaphroditic. If a dominant male perishes, the largest female of the group will often morph to take its place.
Once acclimated to a new aquarium, anthias do best when fed a varied diet of frozen mysis shrimp, enriched frozen brine shrimp, and over time may eat high-quality flake foods offered in small quantities throughout the day. An attached refugium cultivating copepods and amphipods provides a steady supply of nutritious live food sure to keep this active planktivore content.
Approximate Purchase Size: 2" to 4"
15-Red Belted Anthias
Pseudanthias rubrizonatus
Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 5"
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
The Red Belted Anthias is a beautifully colored anthias with a bold personality. This hardy beauty animates the reef aquarium with its eye-catching medley of warm pink, orange and red coloration. True to its namesake, the Red Belted Anthias is easily distinguished by a vertical belt or band of red coloration that nearly perfectly bisects the posterior and anterior halves. Though hardy and gorgeously colored, the Red Belted Anthias displays aggression towards conspecifics and other anthias and must be housed appropriately to ensure aquarium harmony.
As with many Anthias species, the Red Belted Anthias can be kept singly or in small shoals comprised of several females with one male per group. In its natural habitat, the Red Belted Anthias is found in aggregations around isolated coral heads and rubble patches at depths between 65 to 436 feet.
To recreate habitat for the Red Belted Anthias, aquascape your aquarium liberally with live rock, creating a steep reef profile with numerous caves and other hiding places. Be sure to maintain open areas and plenty of surface area for proper water oxygenation. Members of the Anthias group all share the trait of being hermaphroditic. If a dominant male perishes, the largest female of the group can morph into a fully functioning male to take its place.
Once acclimated to a new aquarium, Anthias do best when fed a varied diet of frozen mysis shrimp, enriched frozen brine shrimp, and over time may eat high-quality flake foods offered in small quantities throughout the day. An attached refugium cultivating copepods and amphipods provides a steady supply of nutritious live food sure to keep this active planktivore content.p>
Approximate Purchase Size: Sub Adult/Male: 2"-3", Juvenile: 1-1/2"-3", Male: 2-1/4"-3-1/2".
16-Bimaculatus Anthias
Pseudanthias bimaculatus
Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 5"
Color Form: Red, Yellow
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Maldives
Family: Serranidae
The Bimaculatus Anthias is also known as the Twospot or Twinspot Anthias. The males have one or two spots on their dorsal fin, with a pink head that fades to a vibrant red extending to the tail. Irregular pink bars run horizontally along the body, making this fish one of the most gorgeous of all Anthias. The females of the species are pink with a yellow dorsal, anal and caudal fin. These unique Anthias are beautiful fish for the fish only, invertebrate, or reef aquarium.
The Bimaculatus Anthias does best when kept with its own species in a tank of at least 125 gallons. A marine species, the Anthias dwells in the middle of a tank but appreciates the availability of several hiding places.
Anthias species all share the trait of being hermaphroditic. If a dominant male perishes, the largest female of the group will often morph to take its place.
Once acclimated to a new aquarium, Anthias do best when fed a varied diet of frozen mysis shrimp, enriched frozen brine shrimp, and over time may eat high-quality flake foods offered in small quantities throughout the day. An attached refugium cultivating copepods and amphipods provides a steady supply of nutritious live food sure to keep this active planktivore content.
Approximate Purchase Size: Small: 2" to 3" Medium: 3" to 4" Large: 4" to 5"
17-Fathead Sunburst Anthias
Serranocirrhitus latus
Minimum Tank Size: 70 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 5"
Color Form: Blue, Orange, Red, Yellow
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Fiji, Indonesia, Vanuatu
Family: Serranidae
The Fathead Sunburst Anthias also known as Fathead Anthias, is a colorful fish, predominantly pink, with heavy yellow-to-orange scale margins and facial markings. Pectoral and anal fins are fringed in blue.
The Fathead Sunburst Anthias prefers to live at the bottom of the tank, so the deeper the better, but still maintain plenty of surface area for proper water oxygenation. An environment of low-to-moderate light with lots of hiding places is ideal. It is best housed with peaceful tankmates such as gobies. If keeping more than one, it is ideal to introduce all anthias at the same time.
Anthias species all share the trait of being hermaphroditic. If a dominant male perishes, the largest female of the group will often morph to take its place.
Once acclimated to a new aquarium, anthias do best when fed a varied diet of frozen mysis shrimp, enriched frozen brine shrimp, and over time may eat high-quality flake foods offered in small quantities throughout the day. An attached refugium cultivating copepods and amphipods provides a steady supply of nutritious live food sure to keep this active planktivore content.
Approximate Purchase Size: Small: 1-1/4" to 2"; Medium: 2" to 3"; Large: 3" to 4"
18-Red Saddled Anthias
Pseudanthias flavoguttatus
Minimum Tank Size: 70 gallons
Care Level: Difficult
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, sg 1.020-1.025, pH 8.0-8.4
Max. Size: 4¼"
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Indonesia
Family: Serranidae
The Red Saddled Anthias, along with the Central Pacific Anthias is a deepwater Anthias hailed as perhaps one of the "perfect fish" for reef aquaria by LiveAquaria.com Director Kevin Kohen! What makes the Red Saddled Anthias a highly desirable addition for the seasoned reef hobbyist is not only the striking multiple pink and yellow colorations but also its active nature, great personality and overall disinterest in corals, sessile invertebrates as well as dissimilar fishes. Due to limited harvest, isolated locales and extreme depth where they are most abundant, the Red Saddled Anthias is rarely seen in the aquarium trade, thus heightening the desirability of this jewel of the deep.
The Red Saddled Anthias initially may be difficult to acclimate to a quarantine system. The Red Saddled Anthias are collected in waters of up to 98 feet deep and prefer low to moderate lighting conditions initially but will over time adapt to aquariums with stronger lighting. The Red Saddled Anthias may also find shipping stressful contributing to their difficulty in acclimating. Once the Red Saddled Anthias has completed its quarantine period and are sturdy enough to introduce to your display aquarium, they will thrive and become peaceful members of your aquarium with other peaceful fish. The Red Saddled Anthias should be introduced into your aquarium before other more active, territorial fishes so they can settle in with limited stress.
As with many anthias species, the Red Saddled Anthias can be kept singly but does best in small shoals comprised of several individuals. Members of the Anthias group all share the trait of being hermaphroditic. If a dominant male perishes, the largest female of the group can morph into a fully functioning male to take its place. To recreate habitat for the Red Saddled Anthias, aquascape liberally with live rock, creating numerous caves and other hiding places. Be sure to maintain open areas and plenty of surface area for proper water oxygenation. For a dramatic aquarium display, consider a steep reef profile, perhaps with a slight overhang to provide additional shelter as well as diffused lighting.
Once acclimated to a new aquarium, Anthias do best when fed a varied diet of frozen mysis shrimp, enriched frozen brine shrimp, and over time may eat high-quality flake foods offered in small quantities throughout the day. An attached refugium cultivating copepods and amphipods provides a steady supply of nutritious live food sure to keep this active planktivore content.
Approximate Purchase Size: Juvenile/Female: < 2"; Sub adult/Male: 2" to 3"
19-Princess Anthias
Pseudanthias smithvanizi
Minimum Tank Size: 70 gallons
Care Level: Difficult
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 3½"
Color Form: Pink
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Fiji, Indonesia
Family: Serranidae
The Princess Anthias is a gorgeous deepwater anthias sure to be a prized addition for the devoted anthias keeper. The Princess Anthias sports a rich, sapphire pink coloration beautifully accentuated with golden-yellow flecks that immediately captures the eye. The careful observer will notice that the golden-yellow spots appear on each scale (except those on the ventrum) as though meticulously hand-painted by a piscine Picasso. With its vibrant jewel-like coloration, it's easy to see why the Princess Anthias achieves royal status among anthias aficionados.
The Princess Anthias initially may be difficult to acclimate to a quarantine system. The Princess Anthias are collected in waters of up to 228 feet deep and prefer low to moderate lighting conditions initially but will over time adapt to aquariums with stronger lighting. The Princess Anthias may also find shipping stressful contributing to their difficulty in acclimating. Once the Princess Anthias has completed its quarantine period and are sturdy enough to introduce to your display aquarium, they will thrive and become peaceful members of your aquarium with other peaceful fish. The Princess Anthias should be introduced into your aquarium before other more active, territorial fishes so they can settle in with limited stress.
As with many anthias species, the Princess Anthias can be kept singly but does best in small shoals comprised of several individuals. Members of the Anthias group all share the trait of being hermaphroditic. If a dominant male perishes, the largest female of the group can morph into a fully functioning male to take its place. To recreate habitat for the Princess Anthias, aquascape liberally with live rock, creating numerous caves and other hiding places. Be sure to maintain open areas and plenty of surface area for proper water oxygenation. For a dramatic aquarium display, consider a steep reef profile, perhaps with a slight overhang to provide additional shelter as well as diffused lighting.
Once acclimated to a new aquarium, the Princess Anthias do best when fed a varied diet of enriched frozen mysis shrimp, enriched frozen brine shrimp, and over time may eat high-quality flake foods offered in small quantities throughout the day. An attached refugium cultivating copepods and amphipods provides a steady supply of nutritious live food sure to keep this active planktivore content.
Approximate Purchase Size: Small: 1" to 2"; Medium: 2" to 3"
20-Waitei Anthias
Luzonichthys waitei
Minimum Tank Size: 55 gallons
Care Level: Difficult
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 3"
Color Form: Orange, Purple, Red, Yellow
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Fiji, Indonesia
Family: Serranidae
The Waitei Anthias, Luzonichthys waitei, is also known by another colorful and descriptive common name, the Magenta Slender Anthias. Members of genus Luzonichthys(Slender Anthias), including this uncommon beauty, make sporadic appearances in the aquarium trade and are therefore much desired by hobbyists.
The Waitei Anthias is a vibrant fish sporting varying shades of orange, purple and magenta that instantly animate marine aquariums with exciting color. Just as their name suggests, Slender Anthias have elongate bodies and are easily identified by a divided or split dorsal fin. However, distinguishing male from female Anthias within this genus pose a greater challenge since coloration do not differ between the genders. As a relatively shy Anthias species, the Waitei Anthias may require extra "TLC" when first introduced into the aquarium and is best kept in small groups of five or more individuals. The Waitei Anthias is well suited for any reef aquarium housing peaceful fishes. Do not house Waitei Anthias with aggressive or overactive fish especially larger, more active and aggressive Anthias species.
Members of the Anthias group all share the trait of being hermaphroditic. If a dominant male perishes, the largest female of the group can morph into a fully functioning male to take its place.
In its natural habitat, the Waitei Anthias occurs in large groups on steep outer-reef slopes at depths of 3 to 179 feet of water. To recreate habitat for the Waitei Anthias, aquascape liberally with live rock, creating numerous caves and other hiding places. Be sure to maintain open areas and plenty of surface area for proper water oxygenation. Provide strong water movement to recreate the current swept drop-off areas of the reef slopes Waitei Anthias tend to inhabit in the wild.
Once acclimated to a new aquarium, the Waitei Anthias do best when fed a varied diet of enriched frozen mysis shrimp, enriched frozen brine shrimp, and over time may eat high-quality flake foods offered in small quantities throughout the day. An attached refugium cultivating copepods and amphipods provides a steady supply of nutritious live food sure to keep this active planktivore content.
Approximate Purchase Size: Small: 1" to 2"; Medium: 2" to 3"; Large: 3" to 4"
21- Red Fairy Anthias
Pseudanthias kashiwae
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 6"
Color Form: Orange, Red, White
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Fiji, Maldives, Vanuatu
Family: Serranidae
The Red Fairy Anthias is one of the Anthias groups that is moderately easy to keep. Once thought to be the same fish as the Striped Anthias, this was resolved by territorial identification with the Striped Anthias being endemic to the Red Sea, while the Red Fairy Anthias is found in the Red Sea, Maldives and along the Great Barrier Reef. The Red Fairy Anthias is also referred to as the Tricolor Anthias, Cooper's Anthias, Red Fairy Basslet, Silver Streak, or Kashiwae Anthias. A well developed lateral red bar and a red caudal fin differentiate the male from a female which only has red tips on the caudal fin and a pinkish-orange body color.
This is one of the few Anthias that can be kept with other varieties, e.g.; the Lyretail, Squarespot, and Purple Queen. Use caution when introducing the Red Fairy Anthias to a tank. If there is aggressive or deadly behavior, the fish should be separated. It is best kept in a 125 gallon tank for a group. The Red Fairy Anthias group needs a large amount of room in which to swim.
Anthias species all share the trait of being hermaphroditic.
Once acclimated to a new aquarium, Anthias do best when fed a varied diet of frozen mysis shrimp, enriched frozen brine shrimp, and over time may eat high-quality flake foods offered in small quantities throughout the day. An attached refugium cultivating copepods and amphipods provides a steady supply of nutritious live food sure to keep this active planktivore content.
Approximate Purchase Size: 2-1/2" to 4"
22-Bali Lunate Anthias
Pseudanthias cf. lunulatus
Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
Care Level: Difficult
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Max. Size: 5"
Color Form: Pink, Red
Diet: Carnivore
Compatibility: View Chart
Origin: Indonesia
Family: Serranidae
The Bali Lunate Anthias is an uncommon deepwater Anthias rarely seen in the aquarium trade. Similar in appearance to the popular Bimaculatus Anthias, the Bali Lunate Anthias is a gorgeously colored fish demonstrating beautiful shades of rosy-pinks and reds intermingled with veins of golden yellow coloration. In contrast to the Bimaculatus Anthias, the Bali Lunate Anthias has slightly more pronounced pelvic and anal fins, each terminating to a sharp point. The most distinguishing feature of the Bali Lunate Anthias is perhaps its namesake lunate (moon shaped) caudal fin.
The Bali Lunate Anthias initially may be difficult to acclimate to a quarantine system. The Bali Lunate Anthias are collected in waters of up to 196 feet deep and prefer low to moderate lighting conditions initially but will over time adapt to aquariums with stronger lighting. The Bali Lunate Anthias may also find shipping stressful contributing to their difficulty in acclimating. Once the Bali Lunate Anthias has completed its quarantine period and are sturdy enough to introduce to your display aquarium, they will thrive and become peaceful members of your aquarium with other peaceful fish. The Bali Lunate Anthias should be introduced into your aquarium before other more active, territorial fishes so they can settle in with limited stress.
As with many anthias species, the Bali Lunate Anthias can be kept singly but does best in small shoals comprised of several individuals. Members of the Anthias group all share the trait of being hermaphroditic. If a dominant male perishes, the largest female of the group can morph into a fully functioning male to take its place. To recreate habitat for the Bali Lunate Anthias, aquascape liberally with live rock, creating numerous caves and other hiding places. Be sure to maintain open areas and plenty of surface area for proper water oxygenation. For a dramatic aquarium display, consider a steep reef profile, perhaps with a slight overhang to provide additional shelter as well as diffused lighting.
Once acclimated to a new aquarium, Anthias do best when fed a varied diet of frozen mysis shrimp, enriched frozen brine shrimp, and over time may eat high-quality flake foods offered in small quantities throughout the day. An attached refugium cultivating copepods and amphipods provides a steady supply of nutritious live food sure to keep this active planktivore content.
Approximate Purchase Size: Juvenile/Female: < 2.25"; Sub adult/Male: 2-1/4" to 3-1/2"; Male: 3-1/2" to 4-3/4"
