Common name: Yellowback anthias
General information
The Sunburst Anthias, also known as Evan's Anthias or the Orangeback Fairy Basslet, is a vibrant and colorful reef fish that is popular among aquarists. Pseudanthias evansi is known for its striking orange back and pink to purple body, which can add a splash of color to any aquarium. This species is part of the Anthiinae subfamily, which is known for its members' bright colors and active swimming behavior.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 200 liter (53 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.022 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 26 °C (75 to 79 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 12 cm (5″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Needs a well-established tank
- Diet
- Planktonivore Enjoys mysis and brine shrimp
- Social
- Harem Best kept in groups, 1 male to several females
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Males may be territorial
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerciformesPerciformes
- FamilyGroupersSerranidae
- GenusAnthiasPseudanthias
- SpeciesYellowback anthiasPseudanthias evansi (Smith, 1954)
- SynonymsAnthias evansi Smith, 1954Mirolabrichthys evansi (Smith, 1954)Mirolabrichtys evansi (Smith, 1954)
Care
Sunburst Anthias are moderately difficult to care for, primarily due to their specific dietary needs. They thrive on a diet that includes a variety of small, meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. Frequent feedings are necessary, as they have a high metabolism and are accustomed to constant grazing in the wild. A well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for hiding and a strong water current is ideal for their well-being.
Reproduction
In the wild, Sunburst Anthias form harems consisting of one dominant male and several females. They are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning females have the ability to turn into males if the dominant male perishes. In the aquarium, breeding Sunburst Anthias can be challenging, but it is possible with careful attention to water quality and providing a stress-free environment.
Habitat
Sunburst Anthias are found in the Indo-Pacific region, typically in coral-rich areas and steep outer reef slopes. They prefer depths ranging from 25 to 60 meters, where they can be seen swimming in large groups. Their natural habitat includes areas with strong currents, which helps hobbyists understand their needs for high water flow in the aquarium setting.