Blotched Anthias (Odontanthias borbonius)

Description:

Behavior: The Blotched Anthias, also known as the Borbonius Anthias or Blotched Basslet, is a peaceful and relatively shy species. These fish are best kept in groups to reduce stress and encourage natural schooling behavior. They thrive in well-established aquariums with plenty of hiding spots among rocks and coral structures.

Color: The Blotched Anthias is a visually stunning fish, characterized by its pale pink to peach body adorned with large, irregular blotches of bright red. The fins are often highlighted with a delicate yellow hue, adding to its overall striking appearance. This unique coloration makes the Blotched Anthias a prized addition to any marine aquarium.

Diet: Blotched Anthias are carnivores and require a varied diet rich in protein. They thrive on a mix of high-quality frozen foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. Supplementing their diet with zooplankton and live foods can also enhance their coloration and overall health.

Tankmates: Blotched Anthias are generally peaceful and can be housed with a variety of other non-aggressive marine species. Suitable tankmates include tangs, wrasses, gobies, and other anthias species. They do well in community reef tanks and are less likely to exhibit aggression when kept in groups.

Reef Aquarium Compatibility: Blotched Anthias are reef-safe and do not harm corals or invertebrates. Their dynamic movement and bright colors add vibrancy to reef aquariums, making them a popular choice for reef enthusiasts.

Max Size: Blotched Anthias typically grow to about 6 inches (15 cm) in length. Due to their active swimming habits, they require a spacious aquarium of at least 70 gallons to thrive and maintain good water quality.

Origin: Blotched Anthias are commonly found in the Western Pacific Ocean, particularly around the waters of Japan, the Philippines, and Indonesia. They inhabit deep reef slopes and rocky outcrops where they can form schools and find plenty of food.

Sexual Dimorphism: There is no significant sexual dimorphism in Blotched Anthias, making it difficult to distinguish males from females based solely on appearance.

Interesting Facts:

• Blotched Anthias are often found at depths ranging from 100 to 300 feet, making them a deep-water species that requires acclimation to aquarium lighting.
• They are known for their ability to change color slightly depending on their mood and environment, which can be fascinating to observe in a home aquarium.
• Blotched Anthias are relatively hardy and can adapt well to captivity with proper care and a well-maintained environment.
• Their unique blotched pattern and peaceful nature make them a favorite among aquarists looking to add rare and beautiful species to their collections.

Disclaimer: Aquarium Arts cannot guarantee compatibility with your current fish or the fish you buy and cannot be held liable for fish lost due to aggression.

Introduce the exquisite Blotched Anthias to your aquarium and enjoy their serene presence and stunning coloration, enhancing the beauty and diversity of your underwater world.