The Lyretail Anthias (Pseudanthias squamipinnis), also known as the Sea Goldie, is a vibrant and captivating fish that’s a favorite among marine aquarium enthusiasts. Native to the reefs of the Indo-Pacific, this fish is renowned for its dazzling colors and dynamic social behavior.
Appearance
Lyretail Anthias are visually striking. Males exhibit a vivid orange to reddish-pink body, accented with purple or lavender highlights, and elongated dorsal and tail fins. Females are equally eye-catching with a golden-orange hue and a streamlined physique. The sexual dimorphism makes them an especially engaging species to observe.
Habitat
In the wild, Lyretail Anthias inhabit coral-rich areas, often forming large, bustling schools. They thrive in strong currents and are typically found at depths ranging from 10 to 50 meters.
Care Requirements
- Tank Size: Minimum of 70 gallons for a small group.
- Water Conditions: Maintain a stable temperature between 74–80°F, pH 8.1–8.4, and salinity of 1.020–1.025.
- Diet: A varied diet of high-quality frozen foods, such as mysis shrimp and brine shrimp, along with marine pellets and flake food, ensures their health.
- Tank Mates: These fish are peaceful and do well in community tanks with other non-aggressive species.
Behavior
Lyretail Anthias are social creatures that thrive in groups, ideally with one male and several females. This mimics their natural harem structure, where the dominant male oversees the group. Interestingly, if the male is removed, the dominant female can transform into a male—a fascinating example of protogynous hermaphroditism.
Fun Facts
- Color Shifting Magic: The Lyretail Anthias' colors can appear more vivid or muted depending on the aquarium lighting, making them a living piece of art.
- Social Butterflies: In the wild, schools of Lyretail Anthias can number in the hundreds, creating a dazzling display of movement and color.
- Gender Fluidity: Their ability to change sex is not just practical for survival—it’s also unique to observe in an aquarium setting.
- A Gourmet Appetite: These fish love variety in their diet and will eagerly chase food as it floats in the water column.
- Masters of Camouflage: While they prefer open water, Lyretail Anthias are experts at darting into coral crevices when threatened.
Tips for Success
- Provide plenty of hiding spots using live rock to mimic their natural reef habitat.
- Ensure consistent water quality with regular maintenance and testing.
- Feed small, frequent meals to match their fast metabolism.
Did You Know?
Lyretail Anthias are named for their lyre-shaped tail, which adds to their graceful swimming style. Their vibrant colors often change under different lighting, making them a living kaleidoscope in your aquarium.