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Scientific Name: Pseudanthias squamipinnis
Ease of Care: Easy
Native Region: Indian Ocean, Pacific Ocean
Diet: Carnivore
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Safe: Yes


The Orange Anthias, (Pseudanthias squamipinnis), are commonly found in the Indian and Pacific Oceans. This fish is also known as the Orange Lyretail Anthias or the Squami Anthias. The fish in this family are also commonly called Fairy Basslets in some parts of the country. Their beautiful flowing fins no doubt spawned the Fairy reference and the Basslet portion of the name means that they are cousins of the Sea Basses and Groupers. Because of their small size, they dont pose a threat to other fish and make ideal reef inhabitants. A single male will claim a part of the reef as his own, and fight off all other males that try to invade his territory. The other Anthias allowed to stay are juveniles and females, which the male keeps a watchful eye on. For aquariums, the females should be introduced first and a male at a later date.

Nice info mate.

Also worth adding that they can be seen in the shops under the common name "Wreck Fish". Males are pink, females are orange.

I've kept a couple of different types of Anthias. A fascinating family of fish. A male will control a hareem of females. Should he die, one of the females will change into a male and take over the role. Not sure if it is truly a case of them changing sex, or just that subordinate males take the femlae colouring to keep themselves out of trouble. But interesting none the less.