Resplendent Anthias (Pseudanthias pulcherrimus) Care Guide
Pseudanthias pulcherrimus is a deep-reef anthias of the western Indian Ocean that lives in small groups near caves and ledges.
Overview
Pseudanthias pulcherrimus (Heemstra & Randall, 1986) is a reef anthias of the family Serranidae (subfamily Anthiinae). According to FishBase it reaches about 7 cm in standard length and occurs in the western Indian Ocean. It inhabits deep reefs, forming small groups near caves and ledges.
Taxonomy
- Family: Serranidae (subfamily Anthiinae)
- Genus: Pseudanthias
- Scientific name: Pseudanthias pulcherrimus (Heemstra & Randall, 1986)
- Note: FishBase places this species in family Anthiadidae
Habitat
FishBase records this species from the western Indian Ocean, including the Andaman Islands, the Maldives, the Chagos Archipelago, the Seychelles and Mauritius. It inhabits deep reefs and forms small groups near caves, ledges and steep drop-offs at depths of 10 to 70 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 2017.