The Lyretail Anthias is one of the hardiest, most readily available and the largest anthias species. They can be known under many names such as Squami Anthias, Pink Anthias, Scalefin Anthias, and Jewel Anthias. Because they are very easy to care and maintain, the Lyretail Anthias makes a very good choice for novice aquarists. The Lyretail Anthias fishes show semi-pelagic lifestyle and therefore need an aquarium with larger space, so that they can swim freely. In this species, the males and females are sexually dimorphic. Basically, in this species, males are either in almost solid pink or pink body with a white yellow band across it. The Lyretail Anthias fishes are sensitive when introduced in an aquarium that is why we suggest keeping them away from aggressive fishes while they are getting acclimatized. If you are willing to keep a group, it is recommended to introduce them all at once. Once they are acclimatized, other kind of fishes can then be introduced, aggressive ones too. The Lyretail Anthias fishes are absolutely reef safe and usually are not hazardous for ornamental shrimp or other invertebrates. They are indigenous to the Indo-West Pacific, Red Sea, and also along the East African coast. The Lyretail Anthias prefer to live in an environment with lots of hiding places and live rocks, rapid current and open water. A couple of large overhang is also suggested to keep so that they can rest over it. The Lyretail Anthias fishes do not prefer brightly lit aquarium, and can flourish in a temperature range of 72-78 degree Fahrenheit. Due to their small mouth, we suggest you to provide them with small food that includes Mysis shrimps, finely chopped sea food, especially color enhancing foods that can maintain their body color and make them vivid all through.
The family of Anthias are closely related to Seabasses, which include Groupers. These fish begin life as females and will change sex based on the requirement of their "harem". Anthias gather in huge schools around reefs where they swim within the school waiting for food. These schools can be seen in the hundreds and are made up of small "harems" of a single dominant male, less dominant males, and many females.Male Lyretail Anthias are sold as red or purple variations, based on availability.
