Description
The Bicolor Anthias form massive schools among the reefs. The males have a more intense coloration with a violet body and yellow running along the back through the upper caudal lobe. The females tend to be lavender in color with a yellow back and caudal fin. The dorsal fin of the male is edged in purple, and the first ray is elongated. These are one of the hardier of the Anthias and make a wonderful addition to the saltwater reef or fish only aquarium.
The Bicolor Anthias does best when kept with its own species in an aquarium of at least 125 gallons, but is also a beautiful fish for the fish only, invertebrate or reef aquarium. The Anthias dwell in the middle of the aquarium, but appreciates the availability of several hiding places. These fish should not be kept with aggressive fish that will cause them to become withdrawn from the rest of the community.
Anthias species all share the trait of being hermaphroditic. If a dominant male perishes, the largest female of the group will often morph to take its place.
Once acclimated to a new aquarium, Anthias do best when fed a varied diet of frozen mysis shrimp, enriched frozen brine shrimp, and over time may eat high-quality flake foods offered in small quantities throughout the day. An attached refugium cultivating copepods and amphipods provides a steady supply of nutritious live food sure to keep this active planktivore content..
