Heemstra's Anthias

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Western Red Sea: common in the Gulf of Aqaba and northern regions. Inhabits outer reef slopes at depths of 10 to 67 meters, often in large groups associated with fire corals (Millepora) or overhangs.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Member of the family Serranidae. Slender, slightly elongated body with a lyre-shaped caudal fin featuring extended tips. Grows up to 13 cm.

Social Behavior: Peaceful and gregarious, forming protogynous colonies where males dominate over several females. Protogynous hermaphrodite.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Males are reddish or deep orange with a yellow dorsal fin edged in purple, and pectoral fins with fuchsia hues. Females are lighter orange. Evident dimorphism.

Aquarium Setup: Requires a tank of at least 300 liters with strong water flow and open swimming area. Arrange live rock to create shaded caves. Cover is mandatory.

Diet and Feeding: Planctivorous carnivore. Offer protein-rich frozen foods (mysis, brine shrimp, copepods) 3 times daily. Dry food training is difficult.

Water Quality: Keep parameters stable. Temperature 22-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity SG 1.020-1.026. GH 15-25. High-performance biological filtration is key.

Compatibility and Cohabitation: 100% reef safe. Great for hard coral systems. Keep in small harems (1 male with 3 females). Avoid overly boisterous tankmates.

Aquarium Breeding: Very complex in captivity due to space requirements and planktonic larval nutrient needs.

Risks and Diseases: Sensitive to acclimation stress and prone to oodinium. Risk of wasting away if feeding frequency is insufficient.