Painted Anthias

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Restricted to the Southwest Pacific Ocean, particularly the Coral Sea, New Caledonia, and Lord Howe Island. Inhabits deep outer reefs and steep drop-offs at depths of 20 to 80 meters.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Member of the family Serranidae. Grows up to 13.5 cm in total length. Body is deeper and more robust than many other anthias species, with broad, showy fins.

Social Behavior: Forms tight-knit harems consisting of a single dominant male and several females. Spends time in open water but stays close to the reef for safety.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: One of the most colorful reef fishes. The male is magenta-pink with a large yellow and orange posterior section, and violet face stripes. The female is orange-pink with a prominent purple band through the eye.

Aquarium Setup: Requires a tank of at least 300 liters with plenty of rockwork arranged to form overhangs and dark caves. Moderate lighting and a tight-fitting lid are essential to keep them secure.

Diet and Feeding: Obligate zooplanktivore. Demands frequent feedings (3-4 times daily) of high-protein frozen foods like mysis, enriched brine shrimp, copepods, and cyclops. Well-acclimated individuals may accept micro-pellets.

Water Quality: Demands stable parameters, cool water, and absolute cleanliness. Temperature 21-26°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity SG 1.020-1.026. GH 15-25. A heavy-duty protein skimmer is mandatory.

Compatibility and Cohabitation: 100% reef safe. Coexists well with peaceful or semi-aggressive tankmates. Avoid housing with overly fast food competitors or aggressive species.

Aquarium Breeding: Protogynous hermaphrodite. Spawning in home aquariums is undocumented due to challenges in long-term maintenance and larval complexity.

Risks and Diseases: Very sensitive to water chemistry fluctuations and skin parasites like Marine Velvet. Fasting leads to rapid weight loss and starvation.