Description

The Lyretail Anthias (Pseudanthias squamipinnis), also known as the Scalefin Anthias, is one of the most popular and vibrant anthias species in the saltwater aquarium hobby. Known for their stunning colors, social behavior, and schooling activity, they add a dynamic and eye-catching presence to any reef tank.

🔷 Species Overview

• Scientific Name: Pseudanthias squamipinnis

• Common Names: Lyretail Anthias, Scalefin Anthias

• Origin: Indo-Pacific (Red Sea to western Pacific)

• Size: Up to 5 inches (12–13 cm)

• Lifespan: 5–10 years (with proper care)

• Temperament: Peaceful (males can be territorial)

• Reef Safe: Yes

• Care Level: Moderate

🐟 Appearance

• Sexual Dimorphism: Yes

  • Females: Bright orange to pinkish with a small dorsal fin and rounded tail

  • Males: More vibrant with elongated dorsal and anal fins, often showing purple or red highlights and a lyre-shaped tail

• Color Shift: Dominant females can become males (sequential hermaphrodites)

🏝️ Tank Requirements

🍽️ Diet

• Type: Carnivore (planktivore)

• Feeding Frequency: 2–3 times per day (small frequent meals)

• Diet Includes:

  • Mysis shrimp

  • Brine shrimp (enriched)

  • Copepods

  • High-quality frozen or prepared reef fish food

  • Micropellets or fine flakes

Note: Anthias have high metabolisms and do best with multiple daily feedings.

⚠️ Behavior and Compatibility

• Temperament: Peaceful, though males may be dominant over females

• Tankmates:

  • Excellent community fish

  • Compatible with other peaceful to semi-aggressive reef fish

  • Avoid aggressive tankmates (triggers, large wrasses, etc.)

• Schooling Behavior:

  • Best kept in harems (1 male with 3–5+ females)

  • Multiple males may fight unless in a very large system

🛠️ Care Tips

• Requires stable water parameters and strong biological filtration

• Provide shaded areas and caves for retreat

• Can be sensitive to stress during acclimation—drip acclimation is best

• Use a tight-fitting lid: they’re known jumpers

✅ Pros

• Beautiful and colorful schooling fish

• Active mid-water swimmers

• Reef-safe and peaceful

❌ Cons

• Needs frequent feeding

• Can be sensitive to poor water quality

• Males may become aggressive toward females if harem balance is off