Pseudanthias squamipinnis

Datasheet

General Description

The Lyretail Anthias, scientifically known as Pseudanthias squamipinnis, is a species within the Serranidae family, specifically Pseudanthias. These vibrant fish are typically reddish in appearance, with males displaying more intense colors than females. They are native to the East Indian Ocean, Australia, Japan, and The Red Sea, with a distribution range extending from the Red Sea to Niue, including areas like the Red Sea and Natal in South Africa.

Aquarium Suitability

Considered suitable for aquariums with care, the Lyretail Anthias has a hardy nature but may exhibit aggression if not provided with adequate space. With a recommended minimum tank size of 300 liters, it is crucial to offer these fish good hiding spots among live rocks in the aquarium to ensure their well-being.

Demands, Care, and Hardiness

Being hardy in nature, the Lyretail Anthias requires attentive care in an aquarium setting. Frequent feeding, several times a day, is necessary, especially for newly introduced individuals. These fish thrive on a varied diet consisting of small crustaceans like Krill and Zooplankton such as Cyclops. Additionally, they are hermaphroditic, showcasing the ability to change gender from female to male when needed.

Reef Suitability

Known to be reef-safe at all times, the Lyretail Anthias make an excellent addition to reef aquariums. Their peaceful temperament makes them compatible with a reef environment, adding color and vibrancy to the underwater ecosystem.

Aquarium Setup

In setting up an aquarium for Lyretail Anthias, it is essential to provide ample space for these fish to swim freely. A well-structured environment with live rocks for hiding and security is crucial. Maintaining water conditions within the ranges of pH 8.1-8.4, a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025, and a temperature between 22.2-25.6°C (72-78°F) ensures their optimal health.

Behaviour

Anthias are known to form groups with a single male and multiple females in larger aquariums. However, overcrowding or lack of space can lead to stress and potential aggression, resulting in hierarchy-related fatalities. To maintain a harmonious group dynamic, it is advisable to keep a sufficient number of Anthias together to disperse aggression among the group members.

Feeding and Diet

The Lyretail Anthias thrives on a diverse diet that includes small crustaceans and zooplankton. Regular feeding multiple times a day, especially initially, promotes their well-being and ensures they receive adequate nutrition in a captive environment.

Dimorphism

One notable characteristic of the Lyretail Anthias is its dimorphism, with males exhibiting more vivid coloration compared to females. Additionally, they have the intriguing ability to switch gender from female to male when the need arises, indicating a complex reproductive strategy in captivity.

Habitat and Distribution

In their natural habitat, Lyretail Anthias are found in the Indo-West Pacific region, ranging from the Red Sea and Natal, South Africa to Niue, Japan, and Australia. They prefer habitats with ample hiding spots, such as coral reefs and rocky crevices, where they can seek refuge and protection.