Common name: Townsend's Anthias

Care

Townsend's Anthias require a well-established aquarium with plenty of swimming space and live rock for hiding. They thrive in tanks with moderate to strong water flow, mimicking the currents of their natural reef environment. A tank size of at least 300 liters (80 gallons) is recommended for a small group, as these fish are highly active and need ample room to swim.

Lighting should be moderate to high, especially if housed with corals, as this will help replicate their natural habitat. Maintaining stable water parameters is crucial, as this species is sensitive to fluctuations in temperature, salinity, and pH.

To keep them healthy and stress-free, provide plenty of hiding spots using live rock or artificial structures. This helps them feel secure and reduces aggression within the group.

Diet and Feeding

In the wild, Townsend's Anthias are planktivores, feeding on zooplankton and other small organisms. In captivity, they require a varied diet to thrive. Offer high-quality frozen or live foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and copepods, supplemented with marine-based pellets or flakes. Feeding small portions multiple times a day is essential to meet their high metabolic needs.

A well-balanced diet not only enhances their vibrant coloration but also supports their overall health and immune system. Consider using vitamin-enriched foods to further boost their vitality.

Behavior and Compatibility

Townsend's Anthias are generally peaceful but can exhibit a hierarchical social structure within their group. They are best kept in harems, with one dominant male and several females. This setup mimics their natural social behavior and helps reduce stress and aggression.

While they are compatible with a wide range of reef-safe fish, avoid housing them with overly aggressive or territorial species. They do well with other peaceful fish like gobies, wrasses, and tangs. Their active swimming and schooling behavior make them a lively addition to community tanks.

Reproduction

Like many anthias species, Townsend's Anthias are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they start life as females and can transition to males if needed. Breeding in captivity is rare but not impossible. A stable environment with optimal water quality and a proper social structure is key to encouraging natural spawning behavior.

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

Health and Common Issues

With proper care, Townsend's Anthias can live up to 5-7 years in captivity. They are susceptible to common marine diseases like ich and velvet, so maintaining excellent water quality and quarantining new additions is crucial.

When selecting a Townsend's Anthias, look for active individuals with bright coloration and clear eyes. Avoid fish that appear lethargic, have frayed fins, or show signs of disease. Regular feeding and stable tank conditions are key to preventing stress-related illnesses.

Habitat

Townsend's Anthias are native to the Indo-Pacific region, with a range extending from the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden. They inhabit coral reefs at depths of 10 to 40 meters, where they form large schools and feed on plankton in the water column. Their natural environment is characterized by warm, clear waters with moderate to strong currents, which should be replicated in captivity to ensure their well-being.