Common name: Redbelt Anthias

Care

The Redbelt Anthias requires a well-established aquarium with plenty of swimming space and hiding spots. A tank with live rock structures, caves, and overhangs will help mimic its natural habitat and provide security. These fish thrive in tanks with stable water parameters and moderate to strong water flow, which replicates the conditions of their native reef environments.

This species is best kept in tanks of at least 300 liters (75 gallons) to accommodate its active swimming behavior and social needs. A tight-fitting lid is essential, as anthias are known to jump when startled. Lighting should be moderate to bright, as it enhances their vibrant coloration.

Diet and Feeding

In the wild, the Redbelt Anthias is a planktivore, feeding on zooplankton and other small organisms. In captivity, they require a varied diet to maintain their health and coloration. Offer a mix of high-quality frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood, along with specialized pellets or flakes designed for carnivorous marine fish.

Feed them small portions multiple times a day to mimic their natural feeding habits. This frequent feeding schedule helps meet their high metabolic needs and keeps them active and healthy. Supplement their diet with vitamin-enriched foods to boost their immune system and enhance their colors.

Behavior and Compatibility

The Redbelt Anthias is a relatively peaceful species, making it a good candidate for community tanks. However, they can be semi-aggressive towards conspecifics, especially when establishing dominance within a group. It is best to keep them in harems, with one male and multiple females, to replicate their natural social structure and minimize aggression.

They are compatible with a wide range of reef-safe fish and invertebrates, but avoid housing them with overly aggressive or territorial species. Their active swimming behavior and vibrant colors make them a lively and eye-catching addition to any tank.

Reproduction

Like many anthias, the Redbelt Anthias is a protogynous hermaphrodite, meaning all individuals are born female, with the dominant individual transitioning to male. Breeding in captivity is rare but possible in large, well-maintained tanks. The male will court females by displaying vibrant colors and performing a unique swimming pattern. Eggs are typically released into the water column, requiring a separate rearing tank for the fry.

Raising the fry is challenging and requires specialized care, including feeding them rotifers and other microscopic foods during their early stages.

Health and Common Issues

With proper care, the Redbelt Anthias can live up to 5-7 years in captivity. Maintaining stable water parameters and a varied diet is crucial for their health. When selecting a specimen, look for vibrant colors, clear eyes, and active swimming behavior. Avoid fish that appear lethargic or have visible signs of disease.

Common health issues include stress-related illnesses and parasitic infections like marine ich. Quarantine new additions and maintain excellent water quality to minimize risks. Regular observation and prompt treatment of any health issues will help ensure a long and healthy life for your Redbelt Anthias.

Habitat

The Redbelt Anthias is native to the Indo-Pacific region, including areas such as the Great Barrier Reef, the Coral Sea, and parts of Indonesia and the Philippines. They are typically found at depths of 20-50 meters (65-165 feet), where they inhabit reef slopes and drop-offs with moderate to strong currents.

In their natural habitat, they form large schools and feed on plankton suspended in the water column. Replicating these conditions in captivity, including moderate water flow and plenty of swimming space, will help them thrive.