Red Stripe Anthias (Anthias Fasciatus)

Red Stripe Anthias (Anthias fasciatus)

The Red Stripe Anthias is a vibrant and active reef fish celebrated for its bold red stripe running along its body that contrasts beautifully with its overall coloration. Known for its dynamic schooling behavior and high energy, this species is a prized addition for experienced aquarists seeking to add both movement and color to large, well-established reef or fish-only tanks. However, its demanding feeding schedule and need for abundant natural food sources mean it requires careful attention to water quality and frequent feedings.

Care Information
Maximum Size: Up to 4 inches.
Tank Size: 70 gallons minimum; a spacious tank with plenty of open swimming areas, abundant live rock, and a fine sandy substrate is essential to support its natural schooling behavior.
Diet: Carnivorous; primarily feeds on zooplankton and small planktonic organisms in the wild. In captivity, it requires frequent feedings (3–4 times daily) of high-quality frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, and other live foods to mimic its natural diet.
Water Temp: 72–78°F.
Salinity: 1.020–1.025.
Aggression: Peaceful; best kept in groups of 3–5 individuals to replicate its natural social structure and reduce stress.
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced; requires stable water conditions and a mature tank with a thriving natural food supply.
Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe when well-fed; does not harm corals or invertebrates under optimal feeding conditions.

Special Feature – Vibrant Red Stripe & Schooling Behavior
The Red Stripe Anthias is distinguished by its brilliant red stripe that runs the length of its body, set against a background of subtle hues that may include pink, orange, or purple. Its highly active and schooling nature brings dynamic movement and a burst of color to the aquarium, but it also demands a high frequency of feedings to thrive.

Compatibility
This species thrives in community setups with other peaceful, similarly sized reef fish. A large, mature tank with plenty of live rock is essential to provide ample hiding spots and to support its frequent feeding needs.

Coloration
Indo-Pacific Region: The Red Stripe Anthias exhibits a dazzling red stripe along its body, with the remainder of its coloration varying subtly between individuals. Under optimal reef lighting, the colors become even more pronounced, making it a true visual delight.

Typical Habitat
Distribution: Native to the Indo-Pacific, the Red Stripe Anthias inhabits coral reef slopes and deeper reef zones where it forms large schools.
Tank Setup: It thrives in mature aquariums with stable water conditions, abundant live rock, and a robust natural food supply that mimics its wild habitat.