Common name: Red Sea Anthias

Care

The Red Sea Anthias thrives in well-maintained reef aquariums with plenty of swimming space and hiding spots. A tank with live rock and coral structures mimicking their natural reef habitat is ideal. They prefer stable water conditions and are sensitive to fluctuations in parameters, so consistent maintenance is crucial.

This species does best in groups, with a single dominant male and several females. Providing a spacious tank with ample room for swimming and territories will help reduce stress and aggression. A minimum tank size of 300 liters is recommended for a small group, but larger tanks are preferable for long-term success.

Lighting should be moderate to high, as they are accustomed to well-lit reef environments. Moderate water flow is also ideal, replicating the gentle currents of their natural habitat.

Diet and Feeding

In the wild, Pseudanthias taeniatus primarily feeds on zooplankton. In captivity, they require a varied diet to thrive. Offer a mix of high-quality frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. Supplement their diet with enriched flake or pellet foods designed for carnivorous marine fish.

Feed them small portions multiple times a day to mimic their natural feeding habits. Their high metabolism means they need frequent meals to maintain their energy levels and vibrant coloration. Using an automatic feeder can help ensure they receive consistent nutrition throughout the day.

Behavior and Compatibility

The Red Sea Anthias is generally peaceful but can exhibit hierarchical behavior within their group. Males may become territorial, especially in smaller tanks or if there are multiple males present. To minimize aggression, maintain a harem structure with one male and several females.

They are excellent candidates for community reef tanks and are compatible with a wide range of peaceful tank mates, including gobies, wrasses, and tangs. Avoid housing them with overly aggressive or predatory species that may outcompete them for food or cause stress.

Reproduction

Like many anthias species, Pseudanthias taeniatus are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning all individuals are born female, and the dominant individual in a group will transition to male. Breeding in captivity is challenging but not impossible. A stable environment with consistent feeding and proper group dynamics can encourage spawning behavior. The female lays eggs in the water column, which are then fertilized by the male. Raising the fry requires a separate rearing tank and specialized feeding, such as rotifers and copepods.

Health and Common Issues

The Red Sea Anthias is relatively hardy when provided with optimal care but can be prone to stress-related illnesses if water quality is poor or if they are housed in inappropriate conditions. Common issues include ich and bacterial infections. Quarantining new additions and maintaining excellent water quality are essential preventive measures.

When selecting a specimen, look for active individuals with vibrant coloration and no visible signs of disease. Avoid fish that appear lethargic or have frayed fins, as these may indicate underlying health problems.

Habitat

Pseudanthias taeniatus is native to the Red Sea and adjacent regions of the western Indian Ocean. They inhabit coral-rich areas at depths ranging from 10 to 50 meters, often forming large schools above the reef. These environments are characterized by clear, warm waters with moderate currents, which should be replicated in their captive habitat.