Ignitus Anthias – South Asia – (Pseudanthias ignitus)

 

• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet: Carnivore
• Reef Safe: Yes
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
• Max Size: 3 inches
• Water Parameters: pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.020-1.025, Temperature 72-78°F

Comprehensive Guide to the Ignitus Anthias – South Asia – (Pseudanthias ignitus)

The Ignitus Anthias, also known as Pseudanthias ignitus, is a beautiful saltwater fish native to South Asia. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover various aspects of caring for this species in a saltwater aquarium.

Habitat

The Ignitus Anthias can be found in the coastal waters of South Asia, specifically in areas with coral reefs. They prefer to inhabit depths between 15 and 50 feet.

Reef Safe

The Ignitus Anthias is considered reef safe, meaning it won’t harm corals or other invertebrates in the aquarium. It is a peaceful fish and generally compatible with most reef setups.

Size

The maximum size of the Ignitus Anthias is around 3 inches, making it a relatively small fish for a saltwater aquarium. This makes it a suitable choice for smaller tanks.

Temperament

The Ignitus Anthias has a peaceful temperament and generally gets along well with other fish in the aquarium. However, it is recommended to keep them in small groups to mimic their natural social behavior.

Sexual Dimorphism

Male Ignitus Anthias have a vibrant orange coloration, while females have a more subdued pink or yellow color. Males also have elongated dorsal and anal fins.

Lifespan

The average lifespan of an Ignitus Anthias is around 3 to 5 years in captivity. With proper care and a suitable environment, they can live even longer.

Diet in Aquariums

The Ignitus Anthias is a carnivorous fish that primarily feeds on small crustaceans and zooplankton in the wild. In an aquarium, they can be fed a varied diet consisting of high-quality frozen and live foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and copepods.

Aquascaping Recommendations

To create a suitable environment for the Ignitus Anthias, it is recommended to provide plenty of live rock for hiding places and to mimic their natural reef habitat. Open swimming areas should also be provided for their active nature.

Captive Bred Availability

The Ignitus Anthias is not commonly available as captive-bred specimens. Most individuals found in the aquarium trade are wild-caught. However, efforts are being made to breed them in captivity to reduce the impact on wild populations.

Compatibility with Other Fish, Invertebrates, or Corals

The Ignitus Anthias is generally compatible with most peaceful marine fish, invertebrates, and corals. However, caution should be exercised when keeping them with larger, aggressive fish that may intimidate or harm them.

Here are five specific tankmates that are good choices for the Ignitus Anthias:

1. Clownfish – Clownfish are peaceful and hardy, making them great tankmates for the Ignitus Anthias.
2. Firefish – Firefish have a similar peaceful temperament and complement the vibrant colors of the Ignitus Anthias.
3. Blennies – Blennies are small, bottom-dwelling fish that won’t compete for the same swimming space as the Ignitus Anthias.
4. Cleaner Shrimp – Cleaner shrimp can help maintain the health of the Ignitus Anthias by removing parasites from their skin.
5. Soft Corals – Soft corals, such as Zoanthids and Mushroom corals, can add additional color and texture to the aquarium while being compatible with the Ignitus Anthias.

Other Common Names

Some other common names that the Ignitus Anthias might be known by include Flame Anthias and Indian Ocean Anthias.

Why Buy from Reefs4Less.com

When considering purchasing an Ignitus Anthias or any other saltwater fish, it is important to choose a reputable and reliable supplier. Reefs4Less.com offers a wide range of high-quality marine livestock and aquarium supplies. They prioritize the health and well-being of the fish they provide, ensuring that you receive healthy specimens for your aquarium.

Popular Questions and Answers:

1. Q: What is the ideal tank size for the Ignitus Anthias?
   A: The Ignitus Anthias requires a minimum tank size of 30 gallons to provide enough space for swimming and to accommodate their social behavior.
2. Q: Can the Ignitus Anthias be kept with aggressive fish?
   A: It is generally not recommended to keep the Ignitus Anthias with aggressive fish, as they may be intimidated or injured by them. It is best to choose peaceful tankmates for this species.
3. Q: How often should I feed the Ignitus Anthias?
   A: The Ignitus Anthias should be fed small amounts multiple times a day. Aim for at least two to three feedings per day to ensure they receive a balanced diet.
4. Q: Can the Ignitus Anthias be kept in a reef tank?
   A: Yes, the Ignitus Anthias is considered reef safe and can be kept in a reef tank without causing harm to corals or other invertebrates.
5. Q: How can I encourage breeding of the Ignitus Anthias?
   A: Breeding the Ignitus Anthias in captivity can be challenging. Providing a suitable environment with plenty of hiding places, proper water parameters, and a varied diet can increase the chances of successful breeding.

Overall, the Ignitus Anthias is a stunning addition to any saltwater aquarium. With its vibrant colors and peaceful nature, it can thrive in a well-maintained reef tank. Consider purchasing this species from Reefs4Less.com, a trusted source for high-quality marine livestock and aquarium supplies.