Princess Anthias (Pseudanthias smithvanizi) – Complete Care Guide

General Information

The Princess Anthias (Pseudanthias smithvanizi) is a stunning and relatively rare addition to the marine aquarium trade. Known for its vibrant pink and orange hues, this species is a favorite among aquarists seeking to add a splash of color to their tanks. Native to the Indo-Pacific region, the Princess Anthias is typically found in deeper reef environments, often in large schools.

This species is named in honor of Dr. William Smith-Vaniz, a renowned ichthyologist. Its graceful appearance and dynamic schooling behavior make it a captivating choice for hobbyists, though it requires a bit more care and attention compared to hardier species.

Care

The Princess Anthias is best suited for intermediate to advanced aquarists due to its specific care requirements. It thrives in larger, well-established aquariums with plenty of swimming space and live rock for shelter. A tank with stable water parameters and moderate to high water flow is essential to mimic its natural reef environment.

This species prefers dimmer lighting, as it is accustomed to deeper reef zones. Providing shaded areas or caves within the tank can help reduce stress and make the fish feel more secure. Regular maintenance and water quality checks are crucial to ensure its health.

Diet and Feeding

In the wild, the Princess Anthias is a planktivore, feeding on zooplankton and other small organisms. In captivity, it requires a varied diet that includes high-quality frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. Enriched foods and marine-specific pellets can also be offered to ensure a balanced diet.

Frequent, small feedings throughout the day are recommended to replicate its natural feeding habits. This species has a high metabolism, so consistent feeding is key to maintaining its vibrant coloration and overall health.

Behavior and Compatibility

The Princess Anthias is a peaceful and social species, making it an excellent candidate for community reef tanks. It thrives in groups and should ideally be kept in a harem with one male and several females. This social structure mirrors their natural behavior and helps reduce stress and aggression.

While generally peaceful, males may display territorial behavior during breeding or when establishing dominance. It is important to provide ample space and hiding spots to minimize conflicts. Avoid housing them with overly aggressive or predatory species that may intimidate or outcompete them for food.

Reproduction

Like many anthias species, the Princess Anthias is a protogynous hermaphrodite, meaning individuals start life as females and can transition to males if needed. This fascinating reproductive strategy ensures the stability of their social hierarchy in the wild. Breeding in captivity is rare but not impossible, requiring a dedicated setup with optimal water conditions and a stable harem structure.

Habitat

The Princess Anthias is native to the Indo-Pacific, particularly around coral reefs in deeper waters. It is often found at depths ranging from 20 to 60 meters (65 to 200 feet), where it forms large schools that hover above the reef. These environments are characterized by moderate to strong currents and an abundance of planktonic food sources.

To replicate its natural habitat, aquarists should aim to create a tank environment with plenty of vertical swimming space, live rock for shelter, and moderate water flow. Dim lighting or shaded areas are also beneficial, as this species is accustomed to the subdued light of deeper reef zones.

Common name: Princess Anthias