Dispar Anthias (Pseudanthias dispar) Care Guide
Pseudanthias dispar is a schooling Pacific anthias that feeds on zooplankton along outer reef slopes.
Overview
Pseudanthias dispar is a small reef anthias of the family Serranidae (subfamily Anthiinae). According to FishBase it reaches about 9.5 cm in total length and occurs in the Pacific Ocean. It forms large aggregations of mixed sexes when feeding in currents along outer reef slopes.
Taxonomy
- Family: Serranidae (subfamily Anthiinae)
- Genus: Pseudanthias
- Scientific name: Pseudanthias dispar
- Note: FishBase currently places this species in Nemanthias dispar, family Anthiadidae
Habitat
FishBase records this species from the Pacific Ocean, from Christmas Island to the Line Islands, north to the Yaeyama Islands and south to the Great Barrier Reef, Fiji and Samoa. It inhabits the upper edge of steep outer reef slopes with moderate currents, at depths of 0 to 18 m, typically 1 to 15 m.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 400 L (about 106 gal)
- Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- Carbonate hardness range (record): 8-12 °dGH
- Group size: keep in groups (record suggests 5 or more)
- Lifespan: 4-10 years (KB record)
Diet
As a member of the genus Pseudanthias, this species is a zooplankton feeder; Wikipedia notes that the genus has a diet centred on zooplankton consumption. In aquaria several small feedings per day of meaty planktonic foods are needed to maintain condition.
Compatibility
Pseudanthias are haremic, active mid-water swimmers. According to Wikipedia the genus is haremic and protogynous, with individuals developing first as females and the dominant fish changing into a male. The KB record lists tangs, wrasses, clownfish and Genicanthus angelfish as suitable companions, while aggressive damsels and triggers are best avoided.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern, assessed in 2015.