The female Lyretail Anthias (Pseudanthias squamipinnis) brings bright golden-orange colour and lively midwater movement to a saltwater aquarium. Also known as the Sea Goldie, it spends much of the day swimming above the rockwork and darting after food in the current. A group of females makes a striking display, and their warm orange colour pairs beautifully with the red and purple tones of a male.
This reef-safe marine fish suits an established aquarium with open swimming space and plenty of rocky ledges and caves for shelter. Lyretail Anthias feed throughout the day, so plan on offering several small meals of varied, meaty foods.
Quick care guide
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Temperament: Active and social, with a dominance hierarchy within the group
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Reef compatibility: Reef safe
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Care level: Intermediate
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Diet: Frozen mysis, copepods and other small meaty marine foods
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Feeding frequency: Several small meals throughout the day
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Aquarium setup: Spacious, established reef aquarium with open midwater, multiple retreats and a snug-fitting lid or mesh cover
Simply Fish recommendation
For a group display, we recommend one male with several females in a spacious reef aquarium. Arrange the rockwork so subordinate fish have several places to retreat, and spread food across the water column so quieter fish get a chance to eat. Frozen mysis and copepods are good foods to rotate.
Frequently asked questions
Are female Lyretail Anthias reef safe?
Yes. They feed on small foods in the water column and are suitable for reef aquariums with live corals.
Can I keep a group of females without a male?
Yes. In a female-only group, the dominant fish can eventually transition into a male and develop male colouration.
How often should I feed female Lyretail Anthias?
Offer several small meals spread throughout the day. Watch the whole group at feeding time to make sure each fish is getting food.
Do Lyretail Anthias need a lid?
Yes. They can jump, so use a snug-fitting lid or mesh cover and check for gaps around cables and plumbing.
