The male Lyretail Anthias (Pseudanthias squamipinnis) brings rich red, pink and purple tones to the open water of a reef aquarium. Also known as the Sea Goldie, this active marine fish spends much of the day swimming above the rockwork, darting out to catch food as it drifts past. The male’s vivid colours pair beautifully with the golden-orange females in a spacious reef display.
Lyretail Anthias do best in an established saltwater aquarium with plenty of open swimming room and rocky ledges or caves for shelter. They’re reef safe and make a great choice for aquarists who enjoy an active display and can offer several small meals throughout the day.
Quick care guide
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Adult size: Up to approximately 13 cm
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Temperament: Active and social. Males can be territorial towards other males.
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Reef compatibility: Reef safe
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Care level: Intermediate
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Diet: Small meaty foods such as frozen mysis and copepods, offered several times daily
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Aquarium setup: Around 475 L or larger as a starting point, with extra swimming room and shelter for a group
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Lid: A snug-fitting lid or mesh cover is recommended, as anthias can jump
Simply Fish recommendation
If you’re planning an anthias group, we recommend one male with several females in a spacious tank with multiple places to retreat. Feed small portions in the water column so the fish can catch food as it passes. Keep an eye on the quieter fish at mealtimes, especially in a busy reef where faster tankmates can grab most of the food.
Frequently asked questions
Is the male Lyretail Anthias reef safe?
Yes. It feeds on small foods in the water column and is suitable for aquariums with live corals.
How often should I feed a Lyretail Anthias?
Offer several small meals throughout the day. Frozen mysis and copepods are good options for adding variety.
Can I keep two male Lyretail Anthias together?
Males can compete for dominance. For most home reef tanks, one male with several females is the better group setup.
Can a female Lyretail Anthias turn into a male?
Yes. In a group without a male, the dominant female can transition into a male and develop the brighter red, pink and purple colouration.
