Serranocirrhitus latus (Sunburst Anthias / Fathead Anthias)
• Small fish safe: ✅ Yes
• Small invert safe: ✅ Yes
• Coral safe: ✅ Yes
• Minimum tank size: 265L+ (preferably 380L+ for groups)
• Adult size: ~13 cm (5 inches)
• Diet: Carnivorous (zooplankton, frozen mysis/brine shrimp, enriched flake foods)
• Be aware of: Shy nature—needs plenty of hiding spaces. Best kept singly or in harems with one male and multiple females. Prefers low to moderate lighting and frequent feedings due to high metabolism.
Sunburst Anthias (Serranocirrhitus latus) – A Unique and Solitary Reef Fish
The Sunburst Anthias, also known as the Fathead Anthias, is a distinctive and beautifully colored reef fish that differs significantly from most anthias species. Unlike highly active, mid-water schooling anthias, this species is more solitary, preferring to stay close to rockwork and ledges. Its vibrant orange and pink hues, combined with its calm, reclusive nature, make it a prized choice for aquarists looking for an elegant yet peaceful addition to their reef tanks.
Appearance and Coloration
The Sunburst Anthias is one of the most uniquely shaped anthias species, featuring:
• A robust, deep-bodied shape, earning it the nickname “Fathead Anthias”.
• Bright peach to orange coloration, fading into lavender to pink along the belly.
• Distinct yellow facial markings, with two diagonal yellow bands extending from the eyes.
• Delicate, flowing fins, giving it a soft, graceful appearance.
Unlike many anthias species, Sunburst Anthias males and females look nearly identical, with only slight differences in fin shape.
Natural Habitat and Behaviour
Native to the Western Pacific, including southern Japan, Taiwan, Palau, and the Great Barrier Reef, Sunburst Anthias inhabit:
• Deeper reef slopes, often at depths of 10 to 45 meters (33 to 148 feet).
• Overhangs, caves, and reef crevices, where they swim upside-down beneath ledges.
• Small groups or as solitary individuals, rather than forming large schools.
• Shaded environments, avoiding brightly lit open waters.
In captivity, they retain their shy nature, preferring caves and overhangs rather than swimming in the open like other anthias species.
Tank Requirements and Water Parameters
Due to their shy and reclusive nature, Sunburst Anthias require a carefully designed aquarium with plenty of hiding spaces.
• Minimum tank size: 265L+ (70 gallons) for a single individual; 380L+ (100 gallons) recommended for groups.
• Temperature: 22–25.5°C (72–78°F)
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Salinity: 1.020–1.025
• Lighting: Low to moderate, as they prefer shaded areas.
• Water movement: Moderate, with gentle flow near their preferred hiding spots.
A well-aquascaped tank with caves, ledges, and rocky overhangs is essential to help them feel secure.
Diet and Feeding
Sunburst Anthias are zooplanktivores with high metabolic needs, 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) – Beneficial, but not essential.
Feeding frequency: At least 3 times per day to maintain their energy levels and vibrant coloration.
Compatibility and Tank Mates
Sunburst Anthias are one of the most peaceful anthias species, making them a great choice for community reef tanks.
✔ Compatible with:
• Other peaceful, reef-safe fish, including clownfish, gobies, fairy wrasses, 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 triggerfish, large wrasses, or groupers.
• Hyperactive anthias species, which may stress them out.
• Overly dominant tank mates, as Sunburst Anthias tend to retreat when threatened.
⚠ If keeping multiple Sunburst Anthias, introduce them at the same time to establish a stable hierarchy.
Behavior and Social Structure
Unlike other anthias, Sunburst Anthias:
• Are not fast-moving, open-water swimmers.
• Prefer to remain near rockwork, rather than actively schooling.
• Swim in an unusual, hovering manner, sometimes even upside-down beneath ledges.
Their calm, reclusive behavior makes them an interesting contrast to other more active reef fish.
Health and Disease Considerations
Sunburst Anthias are hardy once acclimated, but they can be susceptible 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 hiding spaces to minimize stress.
✔ Maintain stable water conditions with excellent filtration.
Lifespan and Long-Term Care
With proper care, Sunburst Anthias can live up to 5-7 years in captivity. Their unique appearance, peaceful nature, and reef-safe behavior make them an excellent long-term addition to well-planned reef aquariums.
Why Choose a Sunburst Anthias?
✔ One of the most uniquely colored anthias, with deep peach, yellow, and lavender hues.
✔ Peaceful and slow-moving, making them easy to pair with other gentle species.
✔ Prefers shaded areas, adding variety to reef aquascapes.
✔ Hardy and adaptable, once acclimated to tank conditions.
✔ Long lifespan, making them a worthwhile investment for dedicated aquarists.
⚠ Important Considerations Before Buying a Sunburst Anthias:
🚫 Shy and reclusive – Needs caves and overhangs to feel comfortable.
🚫 Not a strong swimmer – Requires gentle water flow in resting areas.
🚫 Needs frequent feedings – Not ideal for aquarists who prefer once-daily feeding schedules.