Lyretail Anthias
Pseudanthias squamipinnis
Saltwater Fish
Species Group: Anthias
Family: Serranidae
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Water parameters
Temp
76-80 F
Temperature
Maintaining a stable and appropriate temperature is critical for the survival of aquatic life.
pH 7.8 - 8.4 potential of HydrogenMeasuring the acidity or alkalinity of water on a 0–14 scale, where 7 is neutral, 7 is alkaline.
NO3 1-20 ppm NitrateWhile less toxic than ammonia, high nitrate levels (above 40–80 ppm) are important to monitor because they can cause fish stress, stunted growth, and harmful algae blooms.
NO2 <0.0001 ppm NitriteIt is a highly toxic, intermediate compound in the nitrogen cycle produced from broken-down ammonia
PO4 0.01 - 0.1 ppm PhosphateIt is essential for plant development but must be managed, as excess levels trigger nuisance algae blooms and inhibit coral calcification.
NH3 <0.1 ppm AmmoniaIt is the primary killer of aquarium fish, causing gill damage, stress, and death
Ca 380 - 450 ppm CalciumSupporting the growth, skeletal structure, and shell formation of corals, mollusks, crustaceans, and coralline algae
KH 8 - 12 dKH AlkalinityIt acts as a shield, neutralizing acids to prevent dangerous pH "crashes" that can harm fish, corals, and plants.
Mg 1200 - 1400 ppm MagnesiumIt enables coral growth by supporting skeletal formation, assists in metabolic processes, and ensures that calcium is available for corals, clams, and coralline algae.
SG 1.023 - 1.026 SG SalinityEssential for maintaining stable, natural water parameters, proper osmoregulation, and stress-free environments for marine fish and corals
ORP 250 - 400 mV Oxidation-Reduction PotentialA higher positive mV indicates clean, oxygen-rich water with high water quality, while low readings indicate high pollution.
About Lyretail Anthias
General information
The Lyretail Anthias is a popular saltwater aquarium fish known for its vibrant colors and striking appearance. It can reach a maximum size of about 5 inches (12.7 cm) and has a lifespan of around 5-7 years. These fish are generally peaceful, but males can be territorial toward each other. They should be kept in aquariums with plenty of hiding spots and a variety of live rock for grazing.
Diet & nutrition
The Lyretail Anthias is a carnivorous fish that requires a varied diet consisting of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, krill, and small crustaceans. It is important to provide a balanced diet to ensure optimal health and growth.
Determining sex
Males are generally larger and more brightly colored than females. They also have a more elongated dorsal fin.
Breeding & spawning
Breeding Lyretail Anthias in captivity is challenging and requires a dedicated effort. They are hermaphrodites, starting out as females and transitioning to males as they mature. Spawning can occur year-round in the right conditions, with females releasing their eggs into the water column and males fertilizing them.
Diseases
Lyretail Anthias are susceptible to common saltwater aquarium diseases such as ich, marine velvet, and bacterial infections. It is important to maintain good water quality and monitor their behavior for signs of illness.
Origination
The Lyretail Anthias is native to the Western Pacific Ocean, including the Great Barrier Reef, Fiji, and Hawaii.
Cautions
Lyretail Anthias are generally peaceful and pose no threat to humans. However, they should not be kept with aggressive or larger species that may bully or prey on them.
Acclimation process
Proper acclimation is crucial to the health and survival of Lyretail Anthias in a new aquarium. Slowly acclimate them to their new environment by gradually adding small amounts of aquarium water to the bag over a period of time.
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