Common name: Longfin Anthias
General Information
The Longfin Anthias (Pseudanthias ventralis), also known as the Longfin Basslet, is a stunning marine fish that belongs to the family Serranidae. Native to the Western Pacific Ocean, this species is admired for its vibrant coloration and graceful appearance. Males are particularly striking with their metallic purple bodies, yellow heads, and intricate purple spotting, while females exhibit a subtler metallic purple with yellow dorsal fins. These fish are found in coral reefs, often hiding in caves or under ledges, and are known for their secretive nature.
Despite their beauty, Longfin Anthias are considered challenging to keep in captivity. They require specific environmental conditions and are best suited for experienced aquarists. Their natural habitat includes depths ranging from 26 to 120 meters, making them accustomed to cooler, stable water temperatures and dim lighting.
Details
- Estimated price
- Expensive High price due to rarity and collection depth
- Recommended minimum volume
- 200 liter (53 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.023 to 1.026
- Temperature
- 22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8 to 8.5
- Average size
- 7 cm (3″)
- Care level
- Difficult Challenging due to specific environmental needs
- Diet
- Planktivore Feeds on zooplankton like copepods and crustacean larvae
- Social
- Harem Best kept in harems with one male and several females
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful Shy and reclusive, especially when newly introduced
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyGroupersSerranidae
- GenusAnthiasPseudanthias
- SpeciesLongfin AnthiasPseudanthias ventralis (Randall, 1979)
- SynonymsAnthias ventralis Randall, 1979Anthias ventralis ventralis Randall, 1979Pseudanthias ventralis ventralis (Randall, 1979)
- Source: GBIF | Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Care
Longfin Anthias thrive in aquariums that replicate their natural reef environment. A tank with plenty of live rock, caves, and overhangs is essential to provide them with hiding spots and a sense of security. These fish are sensitive to water quality and require pristine conditions with stable parameters. A well-established aquarium with a robust filtration system is crucial.
Due to their natural habitat in deeper waters, they prefer dim lighting. Using subdued or blue-spectrum lighting can help mimic their natural environment. They are also highly active swimmers and require a tank with sufficient swimming space.
Diet and Feeding
In the wild, Longfin Anthias feed on zooplankton, including copepods, crustacean larvae, and fish eggs. In captivity, they should be offered a varied diet consisting of high-quality frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. Supplementing their diet with enriched foods can help maintain their vibrant coloration and overall health.
Feed them small portions multiple times a day to replicate their natural feeding habits. Ensuring a balanced diet is key to preventing nutritional deficiencies and promoting longevity.
Behavior and Compatibility
Longfin Anthias are generally peaceful but can be shy and reclusive, especially when first introduced to a new environment. They are best kept in small groups with a dominant male and several females, as they exhibit a haremic social structure. This setup helps reduce stress and encourages natural behaviors.
They are compatible with other peaceful, reef-safe fish but may become stressed in the presence of aggressive or overly active tank mates. Providing plenty of hiding spots can help them feel secure and reduce territorial disputes.
Reproduction
Like many anthias species, Longfin Anthias are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning individuals start life as females and can change to males if needed. In a group, the largest and most dominant individual becomes the male, while the others remain female. Breeding in captivity is rare due to their specific environmental requirements and the challenges of raising larvae.
Health and Common Issues
Longfin Anthias are sensitive to water quality and prone to stress-related illnesses if their environment is not optimal. Common issues include ich and bacterial infections, which can be prevented with proper quarantine procedures and maintaining stable water parameters. Regular monitoring and prompt treatment are essential to ensure their health.
When selecting a specimen, look for active and alert individuals with vibrant coloration and intact fins. Avoid fish that appear lethargic or have visible signs of disease.
Habitat
Longfin Anthias are native to the Western Pacific, including regions such as southern Japan, the Marshall Islands, the Coral Sea, and the Great Barrier Reef. They inhabit coral reefs at depths of 26 to 120 meters (85 to 395 feet), often sheltering in caves or under ledges. Their natural environment is characterized by cooler water temperatures and low light levels, which should be replicated in captivity for their well-being.