Common name: Shen's Anthias

Care

Shen's Anthias requires a well-maintained reef tank with stable water parameters. They thrive in aquariums with plenty of live rock for hiding and swimming spaces. As a schooling species, they are best kept in groups, which helps reduce stress and encourages their natural behaviors. A tank size of at least 300 liters is recommended for a small group.

These fish prefer moderate to strong water flow and benefit from a well-oxygenated environment. Lighting should mimic their natural reef habitat, with areas of both bright light and shaded regions. Regular water changes and high-quality filtration are essential to maintain their health.

Diet and Feeding

In the wild, Pseudanthias sheni primarily feeds on plankton. In captivity, they require a varied diet that includes high-quality frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. They will also accept enriched live foods and marine-specific pellets or flakes. Feeding small portions multiple times a day is recommended to mimic their natural feeding habits and ensure they receive adequate nutrition.

Behavior and Compatibility

Shen's Anthias are peaceful and social fish, making them suitable for community reef tanks. They thrive in groups, with a social hierarchy that includes a dominant male and several females. This dynamic can lead to fascinating interactions and displays of color.

While generally peaceful, they may exhibit territorial behavior towards conspecifics or similarly shaped fish, particularly during breeding or if the tank is overcrowded. Providing ample space and hiding spots can help mitigate aggression.

They are compatible with a wide range of reef-safe fish, invertebrates, and corals. However, avoid housing them with overly aggressive species that may outcompete them for food or stress them out.

Reproduction

Like many anthias, Pseudanthias sheni are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning all individuals are born female, with the dominant individual transitioning to male. Breeding in captivity is rare but possible under optimal conditions. A stable environment, proper nutrition, and a well-established social group are key factors in encouraging spawning behavior.

The female lays eggs in the water column, which are then fertilized by the male. The eggs hatch into planktonic larvae that require specialized care and feeding, making rearing the fry a challenge for most hobbyists.

Health and Common Issues

Shen's Anthias can live up to 5-7 years in captivity with proper care. Maintaining stable water parameters and providing a varied diet are crucial to their health. They are susceptible to common marine diseases such as ich and velvet, so quarantine new additions and monitor for signs of illness.

When selecting a specimen, look for active, alert individuals with vibrant colors and smooth fins. Avoid fish that appear lethargic, have visible signs of disease, or show abnormal swimming behavior. Regular tank maintenance and a stress-free environment will help prevent health issues.

Habitat

Pseudanthias sheni is native to the coral reefs around Taiwan, where it inhabits depths of 20-50 meters. These fish prefer areas with strong currents and abundant plankton, often forming schools near reef drop-offs. Their natural habitat is characterized by warm, clear waters with plenty of hiding spots among the coral structures.