Ventralis Anthias (Pseudanthias ventralis) Care Guide
Pseudanthias ventralis is a secretive deep-water Pacific anthias from caves and drop-offs, considered difficult to maintain.
Overview
Pseudanthias ventralis (Randall, 1979), known as the longfin anthias, is a small reef fish. FishBase records a maximum total length of 7 cm and lists the species under the genus Compsanthias. Wikipedia notes it occasionally enters the aquarium trade but is a difficult species to maintain.
Taxonomy
- Family: Serranidae (Anthiadidae in FishBase)
- Genus: Pseudanthias
- Scientific name: Pseudanthias ventralis (Randall, 1979)
- Recombination: Compsanthias ventralis (FishBase)
Habitat
FishBase and Wikipedia report a Pacific distribution from southern Japan to the Marshall Islands, the Coral Sea, Vanuatu, New Caledonia and the Great Barrier Reef, with populations in French Polynesia, Pitcairn Island and the Cook Islands. It is a secretive species of coral reefs at depths of 26 to 120 m, sheltering in caves, beneath ledges and over coral rubble along steep drop-offs.
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, including copepods, crustacean larvae and fish eggs. It leaves shelter to feed in the water column, which calls for frequent small feedings in captivity.
Compatibility
This is a peaceful, mid-water species. Suitable companions include tangs, wrasses, clownfish and Genicanthus angelfish, while aggressive damselfish and triggerfish should be avoided.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern, assessed 4 February 2009.