Pseudanthias parvirostris (Sunset Anthias)
• Small fish safe: ✅ Yes
• Small invert safe: ✅ Yes
• Coral safe: ✅ Yes
• Minimum tank size: 265L+ (preferably larger for groups)
• Adult size: ~10 cm (4 inches)
• Diet: Carnivorous (zooplankton, frozen mysis/brine shrimp, enriched flake foods)
• Be aware of: Needs frequent feedings due to high metabolism. Best kept in harems (one male with multiple females). Sensitive to transportation and acclimatization; requires a secure lid as they are known jumpers.
Sunset Anthias (Pseudanthias parvirostris) – A Stunning and Active Reef Fish
The Sunset Anthias is a vibrant and highly active species, often sought after for its stunning coloration and graceful schooling behavior. Unlike some anthias species, P. parvirostris is somewhat delicate, requiring frequent feeding, stable water conditions, and careful acclimation to thrive in captivity.
Appearance and Coloration
The Sunset Anthias is easily recognizable due to its:
• Golden yellow upper body, transitioning into a soft pinkish-purple lower half.
• Magenta streaks across the face, running between and above the eyes.
• Males developing elongated dorsal fins and enhanced red or purple highlights.
• Females appearing smaller and more pastel in coloration.
This stunning gradient of colors makes Sunset Anthias one of the most beautiful reef fish available.
Natural Habitat and Behaviour
Native to the Indo-Pacific, including Japan, Indonesia, and Australia, Sunset Anthias inhabit:
• Deep reef slopes and rubble zones, usually found below 40 meters (130 feet).
• Small aggregations, swimming near coral outcrops and sandy patches.
• Haremic social structures, with one dominant male and multiple females.
• High-energy schooling behavior, constantly foraging for plankton in the water column.
In captivity, they thrive when provided with plenty of open swimming space and moderate water flow to mimic natural conditions.
Tank Requirements and Water Parameters
Due to their active swimming habits, Sunset Anthias require a well-structured aquarium with plenty of swimming space and hiding spots.
• Minimum tank size: 265L+ (70 gallons) for a single individual; larger tanks (380L+) recommended for harems.
• Temperature: 22–25.5°C (72–78°F)
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Salinity: 1.020–1.025
• Water movement: Moderate to strong, simulating natural reef currents.
• Aquascaping: Provide ample live rock formations, with caves and ledges for security.
⚠ Secure the aquarium with a tight-fitting lid, as Sunset Anthias are known jumpers.
Diet and Feeding
Sunset Anthias are zooplanktivores, requiring frequent small feedings throughout the day. Their ideal diet includes:
• Frozen mysis and brine shrimp – Essential protein source.
• Enriched frozen plankton – Helps mimic their natural diet.
• High-quality marine pellets and flakes – Supplemented with vitamins and color-enhancers.
• Live foods (copepods, amphipods, rotifers) – Beneficial, especially during acclimation.
Feeding frequency: At least 3 times per day to maintain their energy levels and vibrant coloration.
Compatibility and Tank Mates
Sunset Anthias are one of the more peaceful anthias species, making them a great choice for community reef tanks.
✔ Compatible with:
• Other peaceful, reef-safe fish, such as Clownfish, Wrasses, Firefish, and Blennies.
• Non-aggressive tank mates, as they can be outcompeted for food by faster fish.
• Reef-safe invertebrates, such as shrimp, snails, and crabs.
❌ Avoid housing with:
• Large, aggressive fish, such as Groupers, Triggerfish, or large Dottybacks.
• Fast-moving, aggressive feeders, which may stress them and prevent proper feeding.
• Overly dominant anthias species, which may cause territorial issues.
⚠ If keeping multiple Sunset Anthias, introduce them at the same time to establish a stable hierarchy.
Behavior and Social Structure
Unlike some anthias, Sunset Anthias:
• Are more delicate, requiring more stable water conditions.
• Prefer schooling in groups, rather than hiding.
• Exhibit natural dominance hierarchies, where the largest female may transition to male if the dominant male is lost.
Their energetic swimming and social interactions make them a fascinating addition to larger reef tanks.
Health and Disease Considerations
Sunset Anthias are somewhat delicate, and they can be vulnerable to:
• Malnutrition, if not fed frequently enough.
• Marine Ich (Cryptocaryon irritans), particularly when stressed.
• Bacterial infections, usually due to poor water conditions.
To keep them healthy:
✔ Feed multiple times per day to prevent starvation.
✔ Provide plenty of swimming space to reduce stress.
✔ Maintain stable water conditions with excellent filtration and regular water changes.
Lifespan and Long-Term Care
With proper care, Sunset Anthias can live up to 5-7 years in captivity. Their stunning coloration, peaceful nature, and schooling behavior make them an excellent choice for well-maintained reef aquariums.
Why Choose a Sunset Anthias?
✔ One of the most visually stunning anthias species, with a beautiful gradient of yellow, pink, and purple hues.
✔ Active and social, adding energy and movement to reef tanks.
✔ Reef-safe, with no risk to corals or invertebrates.
✔ Fascinating social structure, making them interesting to observe in groups.
✔ Long lifespan, ensuring they remain a centerpiece in your tank for years.
⚠ Important Considerations Before Buying a Sunset Anthias:
🚫 Requires multiple daily feedings, which may not suit all aquarists.
🚫 Sensitive to aggressive tank mates, needing careful species selection.
🚫 Best kept in harems, requiring a larger tank for proper social structures.
🚫 Needs a secure lid, as they are known jumpers.