Evansi Anthias (Pseudanthias evansi) – Saltwater Aquarium Guide

Quick Stats:

• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet: Carnivore
• Reef Safe: Yes
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
• Maximum Size: 4 inches
• Water Parameters: pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.020-1.025, Temperature 72-78°F

Comprehensive Guide: Evansi Anthias (Pseudanthias evansi)

The Evansi Anthias, also known as Pseudanthias evansi, is a beautiful species commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region. This comprehensive guide will provide the necessary information to keep this fish in your saltwater aquarium.

Habitat

The Evansi Anthias is typically found in coral-rich areas of lagoons and outer reef slopes. They prefer areas with moderate to strong water flow and plenty of hiding spots among the corals.

Reef Safe

The Evansi Anthias is reef-safe, as it does not harm corals or other invertebrates. However, caution should be exercised when keeping them with smaller shrimp or ornamental crustaceans, as they may be seen as potential prey.

Size

The Evansi Anthias can grow up to 4 inches in length, making it a relatively small fish suitable for smaller saltwater aquariums.

Temperament

These fish are peaceful and generally non-aggressive towards other tank inhabitants. However, it is important to provide them with ample swimming space and hiding spots to reduce any potential territorial disputes.

Sexual Dimorphism

The Evansi Anthias displays sexual dimorphism, with males exhibiting more vibrant coloration compared to females. Males also have longer dorsal fins and may display courtship behaviors.

Lifespan

The average lifespan of the Evansi Anthias is around 5-7 years, although with proper care, they can live even longer in captivity.

Diet in Aquariums

The Evansi Anthias is a carnivorous species in the aquarium. They should be fed a varied diet of high-quality frozen and live foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and small crustaceans. It is also recommended to supplement their diet with vitamin-enriched pellets or flakes.

Aquascaping Recommendations

When setting up the aquarium for Evansi Anthias, it is important to provide ample hiding spots among live rock or coral formations. This will mimic their natural habitat and provide them with a sense of security. Additionally, ensure enough open swimming space to accommodate their active nature.

Captive Bred Availability

The Evansi Anthias is rarely available as captive-bred specimens. Most individuals found in the aquarium trade are wild-caught. However, efforts are being made to develop successful captive breeding programs for this species.

Compatibility with Tankmates

The Evansi Anthias is generally compatible with other peaceful fish species as long as they are not overly aggressive or territorial. Here are five specific tankmates that are good choices to keep with the Evansi Anthias:

1. Clownfish – Clownfish are peaceful and can coexist well with the Evansi Anthias. They also add vibrant colors to the aquarium.
2. Firefish – Firefish are known for their stunning colors and peaceful nature, making them excellent tankmates for the Evansi Anthias.
3. Royal Dottyback – Royal Dottybacks are small, peaceful fish that add color and personality to the aquarium.
4. Banggai Cardinalfish – These fish are known for their unique appearance and peaceful nature, making them suitable tankmates for the Evansi Anthias.
5. Cleaner Shrimp – Cleaner shrimp not only add visual interest to the aquarium but also serve a beneficial role in cleaning parasites off other fish.

These tankmates are chosen for their compatibility with the Evansi Anthias and ability to coexist peacefully in a saltwater aquarium.

Other Common Names

The Evansi Anthias is also commonly known as the Purple Queen Anthias or the Purple Queenfish.

Why Buy from Reefs4Less.com

Reefs4Less.com is a trusted online retailer specializing in saltwater aquarium supplies. They offer a wide range of high-quality products, including fish, corals, and equipment. With their extensive experience and excellent customer service, Reefs4Less.com is the perfect choice for all your saltwater aquarium needs.

Popular Questions and Answers

1. What is the ideal tank size for keeping Evansi Anthias?

The minimum tank size recommended for Evansi Anthias is 30 gallons. However, larger tanks provide more swimming space and are generally better for the overall health and well-being of the fish.

2. Can Evansi Anthias be kept in a reef aquarium?

Evansi Anthias are considered reef-safe and can be kept in a reef aquarium. However, caution should be exercised when keeping them with smaller shrimp or ornamental crustaceans, as they may be seen as potential prey.

3. How often should I feed my Evansi Anthias?

It is recommended to feed Evansi Anthias in small amounts multiple times a day. This will help mimic their natural feeding behavior and ensure they receive a balanced diet.

4. Can Evansi Anthias be kept in a community tank?

Evansi Anthias can be kept in a community tank with other peaceful fish species. However, monitoring their behavior and providing ample hiding spots is important to reduce potential territorial disputes.

5. Are Evansi Anthias suitable for beginner saltwater aquarium keepers?

While Evansi Anthias are not the most challenging fish to keep, they require experience and knowledge in maintaining a stable saltwater aquarium environment. Beginner saltwater aquarium keepers are recommended to start with hardier and more forgiving fish species before considering the Evansi Anthias.