Yellowfin Anthias (Pseudanthias flavicauda) Care Guide
Pseudanthias flavicauda is a small western Pacific anthias known from Fiji and Tonga, found on deeper reefs.
Overview
Pseudanthias flavicauda is a reef anthias of the family Serranidae (subfamily Anthiinae). According to FishBase it reaches about 6.6 cm in standard length and occurs in the western Pacific. Males display magenta bodies with yellow dorsal patches and pink heads, while females are orange-pink with yellow caudal fins.
Taxonomy
- Family: Serranidae (subfamily Anthiinae)
- Genus: Pseudanthias
- Scientific name: Pseudanthias flavicauda
- Note: FishBase places this species in family Anthiadidae
Habitat
FishBase records this species from the western Pacific, off the islands of Fiji and, more recently, Tonga. It is reef-associated and tropical, occurring at depths of about 30 to 61 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
FishBase gives the species a trophic level of about 3.3, consistent with a carnivorous, zooplankton-based diet; Wikipedia notes that the genus Pseudanthias feeds on 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 2015.