Bicolor Anthias (Pseudanthias bicolor) Care Guide
Pseudanthias bicolor, a synonym of Nemanthias bicolor, is an Indo-Pacific anthias of lagoon patch reefs and outer reef slopes.
Overview
Pseudanthias bicolor (Randall, 1979) is the bicolor anthias, a small reef fish. FishBase and Wikipedia list the species under the genus Nemanthias, with Pseudanthias bicolor and Mirolabrichthys bicolor as synonyms. It reaches a maximum total length of about 13 cm.
Taxonomy
- Family: Serranidae (Anthiadidae in FishBase)
- Genus: Pseudanthias
- Scientific name: Pseudanthias bicolor (Randall, 1979)
- Accepted name: Nemanthias bicolor (Randall, 1979)
Habitat
FishBase and Wikipedia record an Indo-Pacific distribution from Mauritius and Reunion to the Hawaiian and Line Islands, north to the Ryukyu Islands and south to the Loyalty Islands and northeastern Australia. It is a relatively uncommon inhabitant of lagoon patch reefs and outer reef slopes, found in small groups above coral outcrops or near crevices and ledges, often where currents are strong, at depths of about 5 to 68 m.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 400 L (about 106 gal) (KB record)
- Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- Carbonate hardness range (record): 8-12 °dGH
- School size: at least 5 individuals (KB record)
- Lifespan: 4-10 years (KB record)
Diet
According to FishBase and Wikipedia the species feeds on zooplankton in the water column. Frequent small feedings suit this planktivorous habit in aquaria.
Compatibility
This is a peaceful, mid-water schooling species. Suitable companions include tangs, wrasses, clownfish and Genicanthus angelfish, while aggressive damselfish and triggerfish should be avoided.
Breeding
Wikipedia reports that the species is a protogynous hermaphrodite living in social groups with one dominant male, females and juveniles. When the dominant male dies, the largest female changes sex. Males have two yellow-tipped filaments at the dorsal fin origin used for display.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern, assessed 10 March 2015. FishBase lists it as of no interest to fisheries but of commercial value in the aquarium trade.