Squareback Anthias Male (Pseudanthias pleurotaenia)

Max Size: 8 inches
Diet: Carnivore
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
Reef Compatible: Yes
Minimum Tank Size: 100 gallons

The Squareback Anthias boasts a fascinating array of names, including Squarespot, Purple Blotch Basslet, Squareblock, Square, or Mirror Anthias, all attributed to its unique color variations. Female Squareback Anthias typically exhibit a predominantly yellow body with a lavender belly, often featuring a delicate blue line extending from their nose to the pectoral fin. On the other hand, males showcase a predominant pink coloration with a lavender belly and a lighter rectangular shape on their sides.

To maintain their brilliant colors, it is essential to house the Squareback Anthias in an aquarium with low, indirect lighting. Interestingly, while they tend to prefer the mid-tank level, they have been found in the wild at depths reaching up to 600 feet. Providing a 100-gallon tank is sufficient for a single fish, but if you plan to keep a group, opting for a 180-gallon tank is recommended to accommodate their need for ample swimming space.

Similar to other Anthias species, the Squareback Anthias is hermaphroditic, which means that if a dominant male perishes, the largest female in the group can undergo changes and transform into a male, taking on the role of the new dominant figure.

To ensure their well-being, a varied diet is crucial for the Squareback Anthias once they have acclimated to their new aquarium. This should include a mix of frozen mysis shrimp, enriched frozen brine shrimp, and over time, they may also accept high-quality flake foods, provided in small quantities throughout the day. Additionally, having an attached refugium that cultivates copepods and amphipods serves as a valuable source of nutritious live food, keeping these active planktivores content and well-fed.