Lyretail Anthias (Pseudanthias squamipinnis)

Description:

Behavior: The Lyretail Anthias is a popular choice for reef aquariums due to its active and social nature. These fish are known for their schooling behavior, often seen swimming together in mid-water. They thrive in groups, which helps reduce stress and promotes natural behavior.

Color: Lyretail Anthias exhibit stunning color variations between males and females. Males are particularly vibrant, showcasing brilliant orange bodies with striking red highlights and a prominent dorsal fin. Females are typically a more uniform orange, with a slightly lighter hue. One of the most captivating features of both males and females is their beautiful blue eyes, which are especially pronounced in specimens from Fiji and Sri Lanka.

Diet: Lyretail 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: These anthias are generally peaceful and make excellent tankmates for other non-aggressive reef fish. Suitable companions include gobies, tangs, wrasses, and clownfish. They can be kept with other anthias species, provided there is ample space and hiding spots to establish territories.

Reef Aquarium Compatibility: Lyretail Anthias are reef-safe and do not harm corals or invertebrates. They add a splash of color and dynamic activity to any reef aquarium, making them a favored choice for aquarists seeking to create a vibrant and harmonious tank environment.

Max Size: Lyretail Anthias typically grow to about 5 inches (12-13 cm) in length. Due to their active swimming habits, they require a spacious aquarium, ideally 50 gallons or larger, to thrive.

Origin: We typically source our Lyretail Anthias from the pristine waters of Fiji and Sri Lanka. These regions are known for producing specimens with particularly vivid blue eyes and striking orange bodies, making them highly sought after in the aquarium trade.

Sexual Dimorphism: The most noticeable difference between male and female Lyretail Anthias is their coloration. Males are more colorful, with deeper red hues and an elongated, lyre-shaped dorsal fin, which gives the species its common name. Females are usually a lighter orange without the extended dorsal fin. As males mature, they develop more intense coloration and longer fins, making it easier to distinguish them from females.

Interesting Facts:

• Lyretail Anthias are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning females can change to males if the dominant male is removed or dies. This natural adaptation helps maintain the social structure of their groups.
• They are highly sensitive to water quality and require stable, pristine conditions to thrive. Regular water changes and a well-maintained filtration system are essential for their health.
• In the wild, Lyretail Anthias are often found in large schools hovering above coral reefs, feeding on plankton and other small organisms carried by the currents.

Add a splash of vibrant color and lively activity to your aquarium with the stunning Lyretail Anthias, a fish that brings both beauty and fascinating behavior to your underwater world.