Keeping the Jewels of the Reef:
The Anthias of the Genus Pseudanthias - Part 4

Anthias are often quite frenetic when first added to the tank. Sudden changes in their environment, like a light suddenly turning off or on or an aquarist's hand plunging into the tank can lead to some spectacular anthias aerial displays! Aggressive tankmates can also be a curse to newly acquired anthias. I have seen dottybacks, angelfishes, hawkfishes and larger damsels pester these fish to the point of death.

When selecting an individual for your tank, choose anthias that are swimming about and avoid individuals that are hiding among the coral (this is an atypical behavior unless the fish is threatened by a predator or rival). Also avoid anthias in which the posterior part of the skull is clearly demarcated from the rest of the body (i.e., the head appears to be enlarged) and the back looks sunken in. This condition indicates the fish has lost weight (including dorsal musculature) and it will be more difficult to maintain. Although larger individuals may be more spectacular, smaller specimens often ship better and acclimate more readily to the captive lifestyle.

Although anthias are not suitable for every aquarium venue, there are species within this subfamily that consistently do well in the home aquarium. I hope the tips presented here will help you in your efforts to keep one or more of these amazing fishes.