Common name: Silver-streak goldie

General information

Pseudanthias cooperi, commonly known as Cooper's Anthias or Blue-Eyed Anthias, is a small and colorful reef fish that is a favorite among aquarists for its vibrant hues and dynamic behavior. Males exhibit a striking combination of pink, orange, and yellow with blue lines across their eyes, while females are predominantly orange with a more subdued pattern.

This species is often found in the wild swimming in large schools around coral outcrops and ledges, where they feed on zooplankton. Their schooling nature makes them a captivating sight in a home aquarium, where they can add both color and activity to the display.

Care

Cooper's Anthias are moderately difficult to care for due to their specific dietary and social needs. They thrive in well-established aquariums with plenty of swimming space and stable water conditions. A diet of small, meaty foods like mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood is essential for their health and coloration. It's important to feed them multiple times a day due to their high metabolism.

These fish do best in groups, with a single male to several females, as they are social animals that can become stressed if kept alone or in pairs. The presence of hiding places and peaceful tank mates is crucial for their well-being.

Reproduction

In the aquarium, Cooper's Anthias can spawn if they are kept in a stress-free environment with excellent water quality. The dominant male will display to females and, if receptive, they will rise in the water column to release eggs and sperm. The eggs are pelagic, meaning they float with the currents. Raising the larvae can be challenging due to their small size and specific feeding requirements.

Habitat

Cooper's Anthias are typically found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Maldives to the western Pacific. They inhabit outer reef slopes and drop-offs, usually at depths ranging from 25 to 60 meters (82 to 197 feet), where they can be seen darting in and out of the reef structure.