Origin

Most species are from the Indo-Pacific

Max Size

Varies by Species

Lifespan

5-10 years

Diet

Anthias are primarily planktivores, meaning they eat very small plants and animals found floating in the water. This diet can be followed in the aquarium, but Anthias will often also accept brine shrimp and some prepared foods. They are best fed small amounts several times a day rather than fewer large feedings.

Temperament

Anthias are generally peaceful, if not slightly reclusive, fish. They do best in harem-type schools of one male to several females but can often be housed alone. Avoid keeping with aggressive or very active fish.

Tank Environment

For Anthias, provide numerous hiding places and caves. These fish will spend time hiding under overhangs or in darkened caves. Anthias prefer a dimmer tank with more subdued lighting.

Tank Mates

Anthias are good community fish and will do best with other such fish. Basslets, clownfish, pygmy angels, cardinals, and other non-aggressive species make good tankmates. Anthias are also good reef fish and do well in a tank with corals and invertebrates.

Common Species

Square Anthias-Pseudanthias pleurotaenia
Max. Size: 8"
Origin: Western Pacific
Temperament: Keep one per tank unless tank is several hundred gallons and one male can be kept with 5-6 females. Males have bright purple square on their sides while females are a more plain pinkish color.

Purple Anthias-Pseudanthias tuka
Max. Size: 5"
Origin: Western Pacific
Temperament: These anthias are slightly more difficult and are prone to feeding strikes and color loss.

Dispar Anthias-Pseudanthias dispar
Max. Size: 4"
Origin: Indo- to Western Pacific
Temperament: Also known as the Madder Seaperch, the females of this anthias will have slightly longer pectoral fins than males.