Overview
- Native to the Western Pacific, especially near coral reef drop-offs and outer reef slopes.
- Features a vibrant pink to reddish body with a distinct vertical red bar on the side, more prominent in males.
- Schooling species often seen swimming mid-water above reef structures.
- Recommended for intermediate to advanced aquarists due to its dietary needs and sensitivity to water quality.
Feeding
- Planktivorous; naturally feeds on zooplankton and other small waterborne organisms.
- In captivity, thrives on mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, and specially formulated anthias foods.
- Requires multiple small feedings throughout the day to stay healthy and active.
- Consistency and dietary variety are key to maintaining coloration and vitality.
Habitat
- Best kept in a large, well-established reef aquarium (minimum 75 gallons [284 L]) with open swimming space and plenty of rockwork for shelter.
- Appreciates a peaceful environment with gentle water flow and good oxygenation.
- Structured reef aquascaping with overhangs and caves helps reduce stress.
- High water quality is essential for long-term success.
Fish Care
- Preferred water temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C).
- Recommended pH level: 8.1–8.4; specific gravity: 1.025–1.026 (about 33–35 ppt).
- Very sensitive to fluctuations; requires consistent water conditions and regular monitoring.
- Quarantine new arrivals and monitor closely for common marine illnesses.
Compatibility
- Peaceful species that thrives in groups, ideally with one male and several females.
- Reef-safe and compatible with corals and ornamental invertebrates.
- Best housed with other non-aggressive reef fish such as gobies, dartfish, peaceful wrasses, and clownfish.
- Avoid aggressive species that may outcompete them or cause stress.
Aquarium Behavior
- Active, open-water swimmers that exhibit strong schooling behavior.
- Spend much of their time in mid-water, darting in and out of rock structures when startled.
- Display brilliant colors and confident swimming when kept in a stress-free, social group.
- Providing the right tank mates and layout helps encourage natural and vibrant behavior.
Frequently Asked Questions
What other names does the Redband Anthias have?
In the trade it is also sold as the Red Belted Anthias.
What does it look like?
It is warm pink, orange and red, with a vertical red band that divides the body almost exactly in half.
How big does it get?
Our page lists about 5 in (13 cm).
What size tank does it need?
Our page recommends at least 75 gallons (284 L). Provide plenty of live rock with caves while keeping open swimming areas.
Is it peaceful?
Our page lists it as peaceful. It can be aggressive toward its own kind and other anthias, so plan anthias groupings carefully.
Can I keep a group?
It can be kept singly or in small shoals of several females with one male.
Is it hardy?
It is a hardy anthias with a bold personality.
Where does it live in the wild?
It gathers around isolated coral heads and rubble patches, at depths of about 65 to 436 ft (20 to 133 m). Juveniles enter harbors and silty rocky reefs.
What should I feed it?
Our page lists it as a carnivore. Offer frozen mysis and enriched brine shrimp several times a day, then small amounts of quality flake over time.
Can a female change into a male?
If the dominant male dies, the largest female can become a fully functioning male.