Red Fairy Anthias
Pseudanthias kashiwae
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 Red Fairy Anthias
General information
The Red Fairy Anthias is a small, colorful fish that can grow up to 3 inches in length. These fish are native to the western Pacific Ocean and can be found in the waters off of Japan, Taiwan, and the Philippines. They are popular among saltwater aquarium enthusiasts due to their bright colors and peaceful nature. However, they are known to be sensitive to water quality and require a well-maintained aquarium environment.
Diet & nutrition
In the wild, Red Fairy Anthias feed on small planktonic crustaceans and other small marine invertebrates. In captivity, they can be fed a varied diet that includes high-quality dry and frozen foods, as well as live foods like brine shrimp and copepods. It is important to feed them small meals throughout the day rather than one large feeding to mimic their natural feeding behavior.
Determining sex
Red Fairy Anthias are protogynous hermaphrodites, which means that they are born as females and can change to males later in life if needed. Males are usually larger and have more intense coloration than females.
Breeding & spawning
Breeding Red Fairy Anthias in captivity is difficult and rarely accomplished. They are known to spawn in the wild during certain times of the year, but the process has not been well-studied.
Diseases
Red Fairy Anthias are generally hardy fish, but they can be susceptible to common saltwater fish diseases like marine ich and velvet. Maintaining good water quality and a healthy diet can help prevent these diseases.
Origination
Red Fairy Anthias are native to the western Pacific Ocean, specifically the waters off of Japan, Taiwan, and the Philippines.
Cautions
Red Fairy Anthias are generally peaceful and can be kept with other small, non-aggressive fish. However, they may become aggressive towards other anthias species or fish that are similar in appearance. It is important to provide ample swimming space and hiding places in the aquarium to reduce aggression.
Acclimation process
When introducing Red Fairy Anthias to a new aquarium, it is important to acclimate them slowly to prevent shock or stress. The drip acclimation method is recommended, where the fish are slowly introduced to the water chemistry and temperature of the new aquarium over a period of several hours.
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