Evans's Anthias (Pseudanthias evansi) Care Guide

Pseudanthias evansi is an Indian Ocean anthias that feeds on zooplankton in groups over outer reef slopes.

Overview

Pseudanthias evansi is a reef anthias of the family Serranidae (subfamily Anthiinae). According to FishBase it reaches about 12 cm in standard length and is restricted to the Indian Ocean. It occurs in large groups over outer reef slopes.

Taxonomy

• Family: Serranidae (subfamily Anthiinae)
• Genus: Pseudanthias
• Scientific name: Pseudanthias evansi
• Note: FishBase currently places this species in Mirolabrichthys evansi, family Anthiadidae

Habitat

FishBase records this species from the Indian Ocean, from East Africa to the Cocos-Keeling and Christmas islands and north to the Andaman Sea. It is reef-associated and forms large groups on outer reef slopes at depths of 4 to 40 m, typically 10 to 35 m, in water of 22 to 28 °C.

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

FishBase states that the species feeds at various depths up to near the surface in pursuit of zooplankton. In aquaria it requires several small feedings of meaty planktonic foods per day.

Compatibility

Pseudanthias are haremic, active mid-water swimmers. According to Wikipedia the genus is haremic and protogynous, with fish developing first as females and the dominant individual 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 2017. FishBase notes the species is taken for the commercial aquarium trade and is of no fisheries interest.