Shen's Anthias
From Microcosm Aquarium Explorer
A rare, glorious anthias from Western Australia. [[credit:=John E. Randall/Morphbank]]
Overview
This is a Holy Grail Anthias, apparently endemic to Western Australia, and not often seen by aquarists. It was first collect for science by Dr. John E. Randall in 1987, and is similar to the more common Squarespot Anthias.
Male Shen's Anthias lack the distinct square blotch on the side seen in Pseudanthias pleurotaenia, while females are more orange (the female Squarespot is yellow).
For anyone fortunate enough to acquire this species, its care requirements should be the same as for the Squarespot. They should be acclimated slowly, without aggresive tankmates, and may do better in dimmer conditions than those provided in the typical shallow-water reef aquarium.
Family: Serranidae
Other common name(s):
Native range:
Habitat: Provide rocky caves and hiding places and plenty of open swimming area. This and other anthias appreciate vigorous currents as provided by the more powerful wavemaking devices used by reef aquarists.
Maximum length: 10.5 cm (4 in)
Minimum aquarium size: 209 L (55 gal)
Lighting: Moderate to bright.
Water: Marine 24 °C (75 °F) - 28 °C (82 °F)
General swimming level: Midwater to top.
Feeding
Carnivore. May need live, adult enriched brine shrimp to trigger a feeding response at first, but other frozen rations, including Mysis shrimp and even flake foods can be incorporated into its diet. Color-enhancing rations will help maintain its true pigmentation.
Feed twice daily at minimum. More often is preferable.
Aquarium Compatibility
Best kept singly unless a large tank is available. Keep only one male anthias and a group of six or more females in a large aquarium (180 gal. or more).
Not a threat to corals or most ornamental invertebrates but may battle with other planktivores.