Saltwater Aquarium Guide: Lyretail Anthias – Male Fiji (Pseudanthias cheirospilos)

Quick Stats:

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

Comprehensive Guide: Lyretail Anthias – Male Fiji (Pseudanthias cheirospilos)

The Lyretail Anthias, also known as Male Fiji (Pseudanthias cheirospilos), is a beautiful saltwater fish species popular among aquarium enthusiasts. This comprehensive guide will cover various aspects of keeping and caring for this species in a saltwater aquarium.

Habitat:

The Lyretail Anthias is native to the Fiji Islands in the Pacific Ocean. They are typically found in coral-rich areas with moderate to strong water flow. It is important to replicate their natural habitat in the aquarium to ensure their well-being.

Reef Safe:

The Lyretail Anthias is considered reef safe, which means it can be kept in a reef aquarium without causing harm to corals or other invertebrates. However, caution should be exercised when introducing them to a reef tank with small ornamental shrimps or other delicate invertebrates.

Size:

The Lyretail Anthias can grow up to 4 inches long, making it a relatively small fish species. They are known for their vibrant colors and long, flowing fins.

Temperament:

These fish are generally peaceful and can be kept in community aquariums. However, providing ample hiding places and territories is important to prevent aggression among multiple males.

Sexual Dimorphism:

The Lyretail Anthias exhibits sexual dimorphism, which means males and females have different appearances. Males have a vibrant red or orange coloration with elongated fins, while females are generally smaller and less colorful.

Lifespan:

With proper care, the Lyretail Anthias can live in captivity for up to 5 years. Providing a well-maintained aquarium environment and a balanced diet is important to ensure their longevity.

Diet in Aquariums:

Lyretail Anthias are carnivores and require a varied diet of high-quality frozen or live foods. They should be offered a mix of meaty foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. Feeding them multiple times a day in small portions is recommended to mimic their natural feeding habits.

Aquascaping Recommendations:

To create an ideal environment for the Lyretail Anthias, including plenty of live rock and open swimming spaces in the aquarium is recommended. This will give them hiding places, territories, and ample swimming room.

Captive Bred Availability:

The Lyretail Anthias is occasionally available as captive-bred specimens. Captive-bred fish are generally hardier and more adaptable to aquarium conditions than wild-caught specimens. It is recommended to inquire with reputable aquarium stores or breeders for availability.

Compatibility with Other Fish, Invertebrates, or Corals:

The Lyretail Anthias is generally compatible with many peaceful fish species, invertebrates, and corals. However, caution should be exercised when selecting tankmates to ensure compatibility regarding size, temperament, and feeding habits. Here are five specific tankmates that are considered good choices:

1. Clownfish (Amphiprion species): Clownfish are peaceful and can coexist with Lyretail Anthias. They also add a vibrant color contrast to the aquarium.
2. Firefish (Nemateleotris species): Firefish are peaceful and have a similar size and temperament to the Lyretail Anthias, making them suitable tankmates.
3. Cleaner Shrimp (Lysmata amboinensis): Cleaner shrimp are beneficial tankmates as they help maintain the health of other fish by removing parasites and dead skin.
4. Soft Corals (Sarcophyton, Sinularia, etc.): Lyretail Anthias can be kept in reef tanks with various soft corals, adding to the overall beauty of the aquarium.
5. Anthias (other species): Lyretail Anthias can be kept with other Anthias species, creating a stunning display of colors and movement in the aquarium.

These are just a few examples, and careful consideration should be given to each species’ specific requirements and compatibility before introducing them to the aquarium.

Other Common Names:

The Lyretail Anthias is also known by other common names such as Lyretail Fairy Basslet, Orange Anthias, and Flame Anthias.

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Popular Questions and Answers:

Q: What is the recommended tank size for keeping Lyretail Anthias?

A: The minimum tank size recommended for Lyretail Anthias is 30 gallons. However, larger tanks provide more swimming space and are generally better for their overall well-being.

Q: Can Lyretail Anthias be kept in a reef tank?

A: Lyretail Anthias are considered reef-safe and can be kept in a reef tank without causing harm to corals or other invertebrates. However, caution should be exercised when introducing them to a reef tank with small ornamental shrimps or delicate invertebrates.

Q: How often should Lyretail Anthias be fed?

A: In small portions, Lyretail Anthias should be fed multiple times a day. A varied diet consisting of high-quality frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and finely chopped seafood is recommended.

Q: Are Lyretail Anthias suitable for beginners?

A: Lyretail Anthias require moderate care and attention, making them more suitable for intermediate or experienced aquarium keepers. They have specific dietary and environmental requirements to meet for their well-being.

Q: Can Lyretail Anthias be kept in a community aquarium?

A: Lyretail Anthias are generally peaceful and can be kept in a community aquarium. However, providing ample hiding places and territories is important to prevent aggression among multiple males.