Nemanthias carberryi (Carberryi Anthias / Threadfin 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: Requires frequent feedings due to high metabolism. Best kept in harems (one male with multiple females). Shy when first introduced; needs ample hiding spots. Prone to jumping—a secure lid is recommended.
Carberryi Anthias (Nemanthias carberryi) – A Hardy and Vibrant Reef Fish
The Carberryi Anthias, also known as the Threadfin Anthias, is a graceful, colorful schooling fish that adds movement and vibrancy to reef aquariums. Native to the reefs of the Maldives and Indian Ocean, this species is one of the hardier anthias varieties, making it more suitable for aquarists new to anthias care.
Appearance and Coloration
The Carberryi Anthias is easily recognizable due to its:
• Bright lavender to purple front half, transitioning into a rich golden yellow towards the tail.
• Delicate, elongated dorsal fin filaments, especially in males.
• Slender, streamlined body, built for constant swimming.
• Subtle sexual dimorphism, with males being slightly larger and more vibrant.
This vivid contrast of purple and yellow hues makes Nemanthias carberryi one of the most visually striking anthias species available.
Natural Habitat and Behaviour
Native to the Maldives and Western Indian Ocean, Carberryi Anthias inhabit:
• Reef slopes and drop-offs, usually at depths of 5 to 40 meters (16 to 130 feet).
• Large, fast-moving schools, actively feeding on plankton.
• Haremic social structures, consisting of one dominant male and multiple females.
• Non-territorial nature, preferring open water swimming over reef hiding.
In captivity, they thrive when provided with plenty of swimming space and moderate to strong water flow to simulate natural conditions.
Tank Requirements and Water Parameters
Due to their active schooling nature, Carberryi Anthias require a spacious tank with excellent water quality.
• Minimum tank size: 265L+ (70 gallons) for a small group; larger tanks (400L+) recommended for harems.
• Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Salinity: 1.020–1.025
• Water movement: Moderate to strong, mimicking reef currents.
• Aquascaping: Provide open water swimming areas with live rock structures for occasional retreat.
⚠ Ensure the aquarium has a secure lid, as Carberryi Anthias are prone to jumping when startled.
Diet and Feeding
Carberryi Anthias are zooplanktivores, requiring frequent feedings throughout the day. Their ideal diet includes:
• Frozen mysis and brine shrimp – Essential protein sources.
• Enriched frozen plankton – Mimics natural diet and enhances coloration.
• High-quality marine pellets and flakes – Should be nutrient-rich and small-sized.
• Live foods (copepods, amphipods, rotifers) – Particularly beneficial for newly introduced fish.
Feeding frequency: At least 3-4 times per day to sustain energy levels and maintain vibrant coloration.
Compatibility and Tank Mates
Carberryi Anthias are peaceful fish, making them a great choice for community reef tanks.
✔ Compatible with:
• Other peaceful, reef-safe fish, such as Firefish, Gobies, and Fairy Wrasses.
• Small to medium-sized Tangs, which provide movement without aggression.
• Reef-safe invertebrates, such as cleaner shrimp, snails, and crabs.
❌ Avoid housing with:
• Large, aggressive fish, such as Triggers, Groupers, or large Dottybacks.
• Fast-moving, competitive feeders, which may prevent them from eating.
• Overly dominant anthias species, which may cause stress or hierarchy conflicts.
⚠ If keeping multiple Carberryi Anthias, introduce them as a group to prevent aggression.
Behavior and Social Structure
Unlike some anthias, Carberryi Anthias:
• Are relatively hardy, making them easier to care for than some delicate species.
• Prefer schooling in groups, rather than establishing territories.
• Exhibit natural dominance hierarchies, where the largest female may transition to male if the dominant male is lost.
Their gentle nature and shoaling behavior make them a dynamic addition to larger reef tanks.
Health and Disease Considerations
Carberryi Anthias are relatively hardy, but they can be vulnerable to:
• Malnutrition, if not fed frequently enough.
• Marine Ich (Cryptocaryon irritans), particularly if stressed.
• Bacterial infections, usually due to poor water conditions.
To keep them healthy:
✔ Feed multiple times per day to prevent malnutrition.
✔ Ensure high water quality with strong filtration.
✔ Acclimate slowly, as they are easily stressed during transport.
Lifespan and Long-Term Care
With proper care, Carberryi Anthias can live up to 5 years in captivity. Their stunning coloration, peaceful nature, and schooling behavior make them a great choice for experienced aquarists.
Why Choose a Carberryi Anthias?
✔ Visually stunning, with vibrant purple and yellow hues.
✔ Active and social, adding movement and life to reef tanks.
✔ Reef-safe, with no risk to corals or invertebrates.
✔ Fascinating schooling behavior, making them enjoyable to observe.
⚠ Important Considerations Before Buying a Carberryi Anthias:
🚫 Requires frequent feedings, making them unsuitable for low-maintenance tanks.
🚫 Sensitive to aggressive tank mates, needing peaceful companions.
🚫 Best kept in large groups, which means a spacious tank is necessary.
🚫 Can be difficult to acclimate, requiring slow introduction and careful monitoring.