Lyretail Anthias - Female

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The Lyretail Anthias (Pseudanthias squamipinnis) is one of the most popular and colorful reef fish in the hobby. Females display a stunning orange-gold coloration and are known for their active, schooling behavior. This is an intermediate-level species that thrives in groups and is completely reef-safe.

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• Tank Size: 125 gallons minimum — larger for groups of 5+
• Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C)
• Salinity: 1.020–1.025 sg
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• dKH: 8–12
• Diet: Carnivore — frozen mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, high-quality flake and pellet foods. Feed multiple small meals per day.
• Temperament: Peaceful — best kept in groups with one male and several females
• Reef Compatible: Yes — completely reef-safe
• Max Size: 5 inches (13 cm)

Lyretail Anthias are peaceful community fish that do well in reef tanks with other non-aggressive species. They occupy the middle water column and appreciate plenty of open swimming space along with rocky overhangs for shelter.

Good tank mates: Clownfish, tangs, wrasses, gobies, blennies, cardinalfish, and other peaceful reef fish

Avoid: Large aggressive fish such as triggers, large groupers, and lionfish that may view anthias as prey

Are Lyretail Anthias reef-safe?
Yes, Lyretail Anthias are completely reef-safe. They will not bother corals, clams, or other invertebrates.

How often should I feed Lyretail Anthias?
Anthias have a fast metabolism and do best with 2–3 small feedings per day rather than one large feeding. A refugium that produces copepods can help supplement their diet between feedings.

Can female Lyretail Anthias change sex?
Yes. All anthias are protogynous hermaphrodites — meaning they are born female. If the dominant male is removed from the group, the largest female will typically transform into a male over several weeks.

How many Lyretail Anthias should I keep together?
They do best in groups of 5 or more with only one male. A single female can also be kept, but they are much more active and confident in a group setting.