Dispar Anthias

Pseudanthias dispar


(9 Reviews)

Dispar Anthias

Dispar Anthias

Pseudanthias dispar


(9 Reviews)

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Care Facts

Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Diet: Carnovore
Reef Safe: Yes
Minimum Tank Size: 70 gallons
Max Size: 4 inches
The Dispar Anthias, Pseudanthias dispar, is hermaphroditic meaning all are born females, and when needed the dominant female turns into male. They also display sexual dimorphism with the male displaying an orange/red body color and a vivid red top fin while the female displays more of a yellow/orange color on the top half of the body fading to a pale bottom half. They can be kept as a mated pair, or in a small school of females. Avoid keeping two males in the same tank, as it can lead to extreme aggression.

They are pretty hardy and can be kept in a reef tank setting with plenty of live rock. Diet should include a variety of a steady supply of copepods, frozen mysis and vitamin enriched brine shrimp, as well as high quality flake foods 3-5 times daily.

The Dispar Anthias (Pseudanthias dispar): A Vibrant Beauty for Saltwater Aquariums

The Dispar Anthias (Pseudanthias dispar) is an appealing and vibrant species that adds color and energy to saltwater aquariums. Known for its stunning appearance and lively behavior, this anthias is a sought-after choice among marine enthusiasts. Let's explore the Dispar Anthias' habitat, reef-safe nature, size, lifespan, diet, compatibility, suitable tank mates, sexual dimorphism, tank requirements, other common names, and compatible tank mates.

Habitat and Range of Dispar Anthias

The Dispar Anthias is native to the warm waters of the Indo-Pacific region, ranging from the Red Sea to the western Pacific Ocean. In the wild, they are commonly found in coral-rich lagoons and reef areas, forming large schools and seeking shelter among corals and rock formations.

Reef-Safe Beauty of Dispar Anthias

The Dispar Anthias is reef-safe and poses no threat to corals or other invertebrates. They enhance the beauty of reef aquariums with their vibrant colors and active swimming behavior.

Size and Lifespan for the Dispar Anthias

Dispar Anthias can grow to about 3 or 4 inches (7.5 to 10 cm) in length. With proper care, they can have a lifespan of up to five years in a well-maintained aquarium.

Diet and Feeding Habits of the Dispar Anthias

Dispar Anthias are omnivores in their natural habitat, feeding on zooplankton and small crustaceans. In a home aquarium, they readily accept a diet of high-quality frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and marine pellets.

Peaceful Compatibility of the Dispar Anthias

Dispar Anthias are generally peaceful but can be aggressive towards other anthias species, especially when kept in small groups. They are best kept in larger aquariums with plenty of hiding spots and open swimming areas.

Suitable Tank Mates for the Dispar Anthias

Peaceful and colorful, cardinalfish make suitable tank mates for the Dispar Anthias.

These small and peaceful fish share a compatible tank environment with the anthias.

Peaceful gobies can coexist harmoniously with the Dispar Anthias, adding diversity to the tank.

Some species of blennies are suitable tank mates that add character and charm to the aquarium.

Peaceful jawfish species can be compatible tank mates for the Dispar Anthias.

Sexual Dimorphism of the Dispar Anthias

Male and female Dispar Anthias exhibit sexual dimorphism, where males display more intense and vibrant coloration, especially during courtship displays. Females are generally smaller and have more subdued coloration.

Tank Requirements for the Dispar Anthias

To provide a suitable environment for the Dispar Anthias, the aquarium should have plenty of live rock for hiding and swimming and open areas for schooling. Stable water parameters and high water quality are essential for their well-being.

Other Common Names Known for the Dispar Anthias

Besides the name "Dispar Anthias," this species is also known as the "Lyretail Anthias" or "Pseudanthias Lyretail."

In conclusion, the Dispar Anthias (Pseudanthias dispar) is a vibrant and captivating addition to saltwater aquariums. Its stunning appearance and lively behavior make it popular among marine enthusiasts. Aquarists can enjoy the beauty and energy of these mesmerizing anthias by providing them with a suitable environment, compatible tank mates, and proper care.

So far doing fine, eating well


Reviewed by: Kenneth Devorak on March 4, 2024

Doing well


Reviewed by: Daniel Todd on Feb. 14, 2024


Reviewed by: Frank Eley on Feb. 1, 2024

Active fish eating swimming around


Reviewed by: Anthony Little on Feb. 1, 2024


Reviewed by: Ishaan Patel on Jan. 30, 2024


Reviewed by: Brad Barton on Nov. 12, 2023

One of my favorite fish! So much personality and the peach coloring is always an eye catcher! This fish has become best friends with one of my shrimp and it lets the shrimp clean it! Very happy with my purchase


Reviewed by: Kristi on May 30, 2015

We received our Dispar Anthias FedEx & she or he : ) arrived healthy & beautiful. With proper acclimation she is doing wonderful! Her neighborhood contains 2 clown fish, 1 other Anthias, a Blenny & a Sexy Red Shrimp. All are getting along terrific! My only advice is if your FedEx arrives after 12 noon is to pay the addition $5 for the upgrade that it arrives by 10:30 AM. We live in FL. We also recommend to remind "Saltwater" to put cold pack in box so fish do not fry.


Reviewed by: M. Helm on Feb. 2, 2015

Bought 5 of these for my 125 gallon display tank and added them with a large purple tang, Blue Hippo Tang, coral beauty, six line wrasse, pink and blue spot goby, and 3 other different Anthias. They all stuck together and now in the am all the anthias are in one corner all together. Healthy live stock and eating from day 1.


Reviewed by: Greg on Dec. 16, 2014

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