Common name: Yellow-lined anthias

General information

The Luzon Anthias, Pseudanthias luzonensis, is a vibrant and active fish that adds a splash of color to any reef aquarium. This species is part of the Anthiinae subfamily, which is known for its brightly colored members. The males exhibit a striking pink to red coloration with yellow accents on the fins, while females are more subdued in color, typically displaying a yellow-orange hue.

These fish are often found in groups in the wild, with a single dominant male overseeing a harem of females. They are a popular choice among aquarists due to their peaceful nature and the dynamic social interactions they display.

Care

Luzon Anthias require a well-established aquarium with plenty of swimming space and hiding places among live rock. They thrive in a stable environment with consistent water quality. A varied diet of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood is essential for maintaining their health and coloration. It's important to feed them multiple times a day due to their high metabolism.

Reproduction

In the aquarium, reproduction of Luzon Anthias can be a challenging endeavor. They are hermaphroditic, with the dominant male mating with the females in the group. If the male perishes, the largest female has the ability to transform into a male and take over the harem. Breeding success in captivity is rare and requires a dedicated setup with precise control over environmental conditions.

Habitat

Luzon Anthias are typically found in the Western Pacific, particularly around the Philippines, where they inhabit coral-rich areas and steep reef slopes. They prefer depths ranging from 10 to 30 meters, where they can be seen swimming above the reef in large aggregations, feeding on zooplankton carried by the currents.