Red Belted Anthias – (Pseudanthis Rybrizonatus)

Quick Stats:

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

Comprehensive Guide: Red Belted Anthias (Pseudanthias rybizonatus)

The Red Belted Anthias, scientifically known as Pseudanthias rybizonatus, is a beautiful saltwater fish species that can enhance the visual appeal of any reef aquarium. This comprehensive guide will provide you with detailed information about their habitat, temperament, diet, size, sexual dimorphism, lifespan, aquascaping recommendations, compatibility, availability as captive-bred, and other common names they are known by.

Habitat

The Red Belted Anthias is native to the waters of the Western Pacific Ocean, specifically found in the Coral Sea and Great Barrier Reef. They inhabit coral-rich areas, usually in depths ranging from 15 to 60 meters.

Reef Safe

Yes, the Red Belted Anthias is considered reef safe. They have a peaceful temperament and are unlikely to bother corals or other invertebrates in the aquarium.

Size

These anthias species can grow up to a maximum size of 4 inches, making them suitable for smaller to medium-sized aquariums.

Temperament

The Red Belted Anthias has a peaceful temperament, making it a great addition to community aquariums. They are generally not aggressive towards other fish species.

Sexual Dimorphism

Male Red Belted Anthias display vibrant colors, with a red-orange body and a distinct yellow stripe along the back. Females, on the other hand, have a more subdued coloration, with a pale pink to purple body and a white stripe along the back.

Lifespan

The average lifespan of Red Belted Anthias in captivity is around 5 to 7 years. However, with proper care and a suitable environment, they can live even longer.

Diet in Aquariums

Red Belted Anthias are carnivores and require a diet rich in meaty foods. They should be fed a variety of high-quality frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. It is important to feed them multiple times a day, as they have a high metabolism.

Aquascaping Recommendations

Creating a suitable environment for Red Belted Anthias involves providing ample hiding places among live rock formations. They appreciate open swimming space and require a well-established reef tank with plenty of corals and other natural hiding spots.

Availability as Captive Bred

Currently, Red Belted Anthias are not commonly available as captive-bred specimens. Most individuals in the aquarium trade are sourced from the wild.

Compatibility with Other Fish, Invertebrates, or Corals

Red Belted Anthias are generally compatible with a wide range of peaceful fish species, invertebrates, and corals. However, care should be taken when selecting tankmates to ensure they are not aggressive or overly territorial. It is also advisable to introduce them in groups to reduce stress.

Five specific tankmates that are considered good choices for Red Belted Anthias include:

1. Clownfish: Clownfish are known for their peaceful nature and can coexist harmoniously with Red Belted Anthias.
2. Firefish: Firefish have a similar temperament to Red Belted Anthias, making them suitable tankmates.
3. Banggai Cardinalfish: These fish are also peaceful and can create a visually appealing combination with Red Belted Anthias.
4. Chromis: Chromis are schooling fish that can add additional movement and color to the aquarium.
5. Purple Firefish: Purple Firefish have a peaceful temperament and can be a great addition to a tank with Red Belted Anthias.

Other Common Names

Red Belted Anthias are also known by other common names, including Red-Belted Fairy Basslet and Coral Fish.

Now that you have gained comprehensive knowledge about Red Belted Anthias, it is important to know where to buy them from reliable sources. Reefs4Less.com is a reputable online store specializing in saltwater fish and corals. They offer a wide range of healthy marine species, including Red Belted Anthias, that are sourced sustainably and carefully handled during shipping.

Popular Questions and Answers:

1. Are Red Belted Anthias reef safe?

Yes, Red Belted Anthias are considered reef safe as they do not typically harm corals or other invertebrates.

2. Can Red Belted Anthias be kept in smaller tanks?

While they can be kept in smaller tanks, it is recommended to provide a minimum tank size of 30 gallons to ensure they have enough swimming space and suitable hiding spots.

3. How often should Red Belted Anthias be fed?

These anthias have a high metabolism and should be fed small amounts multiple times a day, ideally 2-3 times.

4. Can Red Belted Anthias be kept as a single specimen?

It is generally recommended to keep Red Belted Anthias in groups of one male with multiple females to mimic their natural social structure and reduce aggression.

5. Are Red Belted Anthias suitable for beginners?

While they require moderate care, Red Belted Anthias can be suitable for beginners who are willing to provide proper care and maintain water parameters within the recommended range.