Common name: Orangehead anthias

General information

The Sunburst Anthias, scientifically known as Pseudanthias heemstrai, is a vibrant and colorful addition to any reef aquarium. This species is known for its striking orange and pink hues, with males exhibiting a more intense coloration and a distinctive lyre-shaped tail. They are relatively small, reaching up to about 3 inches in length, and are native to the deep reef slopes of the Western Pacific Ocean.

Care

Sunburst Anthias are moderately challenging to keep due to their specific dietary and social requirements. They thrive in well-established aquariums with plenty of live rock for hiding and a strong current to mimic their natural deep-water habitat. A diet of small, meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood should be offered multiple times a day to maintain their health and coloration.

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 is lost. Breeding in captivity is challenging but possible with a stable, stress-free environment and excellent water quality.

Habitat

Sunburst Anthias are found at depths ranging from 90 to 400 feet in the Western Pacific, including areas around the Philippines and Indonesia. They prefer steep reef slopes and are often observed hovering above the substrate or amongst coral branches.