Common name: Whitley's Splitfin

General Information

The Whitley's Splitfin (Luzonichthys whitleyi) is a stunning and relatively rare addition to the marine aquarium trade. This small, vibrant fish is named after Gilbert P. Whitley, former Curator of Fishes at the Australian Museum. Its striking coloration, featuring a gradient of pink, orange, and yellow hues, makes it a prized choice for advanced aquarists seeking to add a splash of sunset-like brilliance to their reef tanks.

Native to the Indo-Pacific region, including areas such as the Philippines, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea, Whitley's Anthias is typically found in deeper reef environments. These fish are often seen in large schools, gracefully swimming in open water near steep reef slopes or drop-offs. Their natural habitat and schooling behavior make them a fascinating species to observe in captivity.

Care

Whitley's Splitfin is considered a moderately challenging species to care for, primarily due to its specific dietary needs and sensitivity to water quality. They require a well-established aquarium with stable water parameters and plenty of swimming space. These fish thrive in tanks with live rock and coral structures that provide hiding spots and mimic their natural reef environment.

A peaceful community tank is ideal for Whitley's Splitfins, as they can be shy and easily stressed by aggressive tank mates. They are best kept in groups of at least five individuals to replicate their natural schooling behavior, which also helps reduce stress and encourages natural activity.

Diet and Feeding

In the wild, Whitley's Splitfins primarily feed on zooplankton, making them planktivores. In captivity, they require a diet rich in small, meaty foods such as frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and copepods. High-quality marine pellets and flakes can also be offered, but these should be supplemented with live or frozen foods to ensure proper nutrition.

Frequent, small feedings throughout the day are recommended to mimic their natural feeding habits and support their high metabolism. Providing a varied diet will help maintain their vibrant coloration and overall health.

Behavior and Compatibility

Whitley's Splitfins are peaceful and social fish, making them suitable for reef aquariums with other non-aggressive species. They are best kept in groups, with one dominant male and several females, as they exhibit protogynous hermaphroditism—females can transition to males if the dominant male is removed or dies.

While generally peaceful, males may display mild aggression towards each other when establishing dominance. Providing ample swimming space and hiding spots can help mitigate territorial disputes.

These anthias are reef-safe and will not harm corals or invertebrates, making them an excellent choice for mixed reef tanks. However, they may be outcompeted for food by more aggressive eaters, so care should be taken to ensure they receive adequate nutrition.

Reproduction

Breeding Whitley's Splitfins in captivity is challenging and rarely achieved. They are protogynous hermaphrodites, and their breeding behavior involves a dominant male courting females through elaborate displays. Spawning typically occurs at dusk, with eggs released into the water column and fertilized externally. The eggs hatch into planktonic larvae, which are difficult to rear in captivity due to their specific dietary and environmental needs.

Habitat

In the wild, Whitley's Splitfins inhabit deeper reef environments, often at depths ranging from 20 to 50 meters (65 to 165 feet). They prefer areas with strong currents and abundant zooplankton, which they feed on. Their natural habitat includes steep reef slopes and drop-offs, where they form large, colorful schools.

To replicate their natural environment in captivity, provide a tank with moderate to strong water flow, plenty of live rock for shelter, and open swimming areas. Maintaining stable water parameters and high water quality is essential for their health and well-being.