Sunburst Anthias (Serranocirrhitus latus) Care Guide
Serranocirrhitus latus is a secretive Western Pacific anthias that often swims upside down beneath caves and overhangs.
Overview
Serranocirrhitus latus Watanabe, 1949 is a small reef-associated marine fish, the sole species in its genus. FishBase records a maximum total length of 13 cm. It is a secretive species that characteristically swims upside down beneath overhangs and cave ceilings.
Taxonomy
- Family: Serranidae (Anthiadidae in FishBase)
- Genus: Serranocirrhitus
- Scientific name: Serranocirrhitus latus Watanabe, 1949
Habitat
FishBase and Wikipedia record a Western Pacific distribution from the Moluccas to Fiji and Tonga, north to the Izu Islands and Taiwan, and south to New Caledonia and the Great Barrier Reef, including Palau. It occurs in inshore waters near coral reefs at depths of about 10 to 70 m, forming small groups or occurring singly near caves, ledges and drop-offs, and is faithful to specific shelters.
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
- Lifespan: 4-10 years (KB record)
Diet
According to Wikipedia the species feeds primarily on zooplankton; FishBase classifies it as a carnivore with a trophic level near 3.4. Frequent small feedings suit this habit in aquaria.
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.
Breeding
Wikipedia reports that the species is a protogynous hermaphrodite: dominant females change sex to male when males disappear from aggregations.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern, assessed 13 March 2015. FishBase lists it as of no interest to fisheries but of commercial value in the aquarium trade.