Also Known As: Scalefin Anthias, Sea Goldie

Compatibility and Behavior
The Fiji Male Lyretail Anthias (Pseudanthias squamipinnis) is the showpiece phase of one of the hobby’s classic anthias. Males bring rich reddish-purple coloration with yellow highlights in the dorsal and a particularly striking yellow anal fin that’s characteristic of the Fiji form, set off by an elongated third dorsal spine, a dark reddish-purple pectoral patch, and extended upper and lower tail tips that distinguish them from the smaller orange females. These are active planktivores that naturally gather above the reef, hovering in the current and darting after passing food. They’re reef safe and generally leave corals and ornamental inverts alone, mixing well with appropriately selected tangs, peaceful wrasses, gobies, and blennies, though very timid fish may struggle with their energetic feeding and assertive displays. A male can be kept as the only anthias or with several females, but it can turn territorial toward other males and closely related anthias, so one male per tank is the safer arrangement for most home displays.

Aquarium Requirements
A mature tank of at least 75 gallons suits a single 2 to 3.5 inch male, while a male with several females is better housed in 125 gallons or more. Arrange live rock into caves, ledges, and crevices for nighttime shelter while preserving generous swimming space through the middle and upper water column, and provide strong, well-distributed circulation with good oxygenation to support an active fish receiving frequent meals. One thing worth knowing: in many cases Anthias only eat food drifting in the water column and lose interest once it settles, so offer food into the current and plan on three to four small meals daily, keeping an eye on less assertive tankmates to be sure they get their share. Fit a secure, gap-free lid, as startled anthias may jump.

Specifications
Approximate Size: 2–3.5"
Diet: Carnivore and planktivore; frozen mysis, enriched brine shrimp, calanus, and appropriately sized marine pellets or flakes, fed 3–4 small meals daily
Origin: Fiji, Western Pacific
Care Level: Moderate
Reef Safe: Yes
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Minimum Tank Size: 75 gallons for a single male, with 125 gallons or more for a male with females
Special Considerations: Often eats only from the water column, so offer food into the current and plan on 3–4 small daily feedings. Best kept one male per tank, as males turn territorial toward other males.