Longfin Anthias

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Tropical Indo-Pacific: from southern Japan to the Great Barrier Reef, and east to the Cook and Society Islands. Inhabits deep outer reefs between 26 and 120 meters, particularly inside cool caves.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Member of the family Serranidae. A dwarf anthias species, reaching only 7 cm in maximum length. Males develop noticeably elongated pelvic and caudal fins.

Social Behavior: Extremely shy and peaceful. Lives in loose colonies consisting of a single dominant male and several females, always remaining close to the safety of caves and rocky crevices.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Spectular colors. Males display a violet body with a yellow saddle on the head, scattered red and yellow spots, and elongated fins. Females are mostly yellow with violet highlights on the head.

Aquarium Setup: Requires an aquarium of at least 150 liters for a small group. Plentiful rockwork arranged to create deep caves and dark areas. Lighting must be kept dim or low-intensity. A secure lid is mandatory.

Diet and Feeding: Specialized zooplanktivore and very slow feeder. Demands tiny live or frozen foods such as copepods and cyclops, fed 3-4 times daily. Does not compete well for food.

Water Quality: Stable parameters and cool water. Temperature must be maintained between 20°C and 25°C (68-77°F); does not tolerate summer heat. pH 8.1-8.4, salinity SG 1.020-1.026. GH 15-25. Excellent biological filtration is required.

Compatibility and Cohabitation: 100% reef safe. Must only be kept with very small and peaceful tankmates (e.g. small gobies or firefish). Avoid surgeonfish, damselfishes, or large, active species.

Aquarium Breeding: Protogynous hermaphrodite. Spawning in captivity has never been achieved due to the species' extreme sensitivity and deep-water requirements.

Risks and Diseases: High mortality rate during import. Starvation is a major threat in community tanks. Prone to thermal shock and fin rot if water temperatures are too high.