Common name: Olive Anthias

Scientific name: Pseudanthias olivaceus (Randall & McCosker, 1982)

General Information

The Olive Anthias, scientifically known as Pseudanthias olivaceus, is a stunning and relatively uncommon species in the aquarium trade. Known for its graceful body shape and unique coloration, this anthias is a favorite among advanced aquarists seeking to add a splash of elegance to their reef tanks. The species is named for its olive-toned body, which is accented by vibrant hues of pink and orange, particularly in males. Females tend to exhibit more subdued coloration but are equally captivating.

Native to the Indo-Pacific region, including areas such as the Philippines, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea, the Olive Anthias inhabits outer reef slopes and drop-offs. They are often found swimming in large schools, creating a mesmerizing display in the wild. This species is a protogynous hermaphrodite, meaning individuals start life as females and can transition to males under certain social conditions.

Details

Estimated price
Moderate Higher cost due to rarity in the trade
Recommended minimum volume
300 liter (79 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.023 to 1.025
Temperature
24 to 27 °C (75 to 81 °F)
Acidity
pH 8 to 8.5
Average size
15 cm (6″)
Care level
Moderate to difficult Requires frequent feeding and stable water conditions
Diet
Planktivore Feed multiple times daily with frozen foods and enriched pellets
Social
Harem Best kept in groups with one male and several females
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Semi aggresive Semi-aggressive within their social hierarchy
Captive bred
No
Conservation status
ExtinctThreatenedLeastConcern

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Chordates
    Chordata
  3. Class
    Ray-finned Fishes
    Actinopterygii
  4. Order
    Perch-like Fishes
    Perciformes
  5. Family
    Groupers
    Serranidae
  6. Genus
    Anthias
    Pseudanthias
  7. Species
    Olive Anthias
    Pseudanthias olivaceus (Randall & McCosker, 1982)
  8. Synonyms
    Anthias olivaceus Randall & McCosker, 1982
  9. Source: GBIF | Global Biodiversity Information Facility

Care

Caring for the Olive Anthias requires some experience, as they thrive in well-maintained aquariums with stable water parameters. They are best suited for larger reef tanks with plenty of swimming space and live rock for hiding. These fish prefer moderate to strong water flow, mimicking the currents of their natural habitat. A tank with a capacity of at least 300 liters is recommended for a small group.

To replicate their natural environment, aquarists should provide a mix of open swimming areas and rock structures with caves and crevices. These features offer the fish a sense of security and help reduce stress. Olive Anthias are active swimmers and benefit from a tank setup that allows them to exhibit their natural schooling behavior.

Diet and Feeding

In the wild, Olive Anthias are planktivores, feeding primarily on zooplankton. In captivity, they require a varied diet to maintain their vibrant coloration and overall health. Offer a mix of high-quality frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood, along with enriched flake or pellet foods designed for marine fish.

Feed them small portions multiple times a day, as their high metabolism demands frequent feeding. Ensuring a consistent feeding schedule is crucial for their well-being, especially in a community tank where competition for food may occur.

Behavior and Compatibility

Olive Anthias are generally peaceful but can exhibit semi-aggressive behavior within their social hierarchy. They are best kept in groups, with one dominant male and several females, to mimic their natural harem structure. This setup helps reduce aggression and allows them to display their natural behaviors.

While they are reef-safe and compatible with a wide range of tank mates, avoid housing them with overly aggressive or territorial species. They do well with other peaceful reef fish, such as gobies, wrasses, and tangs. Providing plenty of hiding spots can help mitigate any potential stress or aggression.

Reproduction

As protogynous hermaphrodites, Olive Anthias exhibit fascinating reproductive behavior. In a group, the largest and most dominant individual becomes the male, while the others remain female. If the male is removed or dies, the next largest female will transition to male. Breeding in captivity is rare but possible under optimal conditions. Spawning typically occurs in the evening, with the male performing a courtship display to attract females.

Raising the fry is challenging and requires a separate rearing tank with specialized food such as rotifers and copepods. Success in breeding this species is still limited to advanced aquarists and researchers.

Health and Common Issues

With proper care, Olive Anthias can live up to 5-7 years in captivity. Maintaining stable water quality, a varied diet, and a stress-free environment are key to their longevity. When selecting an Olive Anthias, look for individuals with clear eyes, intact fins, and active swimming behavior.

Common health issues include stress-related diseases such as ich and bacterial infections. Quarantining new additions and maintaining excellent water quality can help prevent these problems. Regular observation and prompt treatment of any signs of illness are essential for their well-being.

Habitat

In the wild, Pseudanthias olivaceus is found in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly around coral reefs at depths ranging from 20 to 50 meters. They prefer areas with strong currents and abundant plankton, which provide a steady food source. Replicating these conditions in captivity is crucial for their health and natural behavior.