The Fairy Basslet, Orange Anthias, Peach Anthias, Peach Fairy Basslet, Redfin Anthias, scientifically known as Pseudanthias dispar, is a captivating reef fish renowned for its vibrant coloration and graceful movements. This species is a popular choice for marine aquariums, adding a splash of color and activity to home tanks.
Description & Characteristics
Pseudanthias dispar exhibits a striking color palette, with males displaying an array of vibrant orange, pink, and red hues. The females are generally a paler shade of orange. This striking fish boasts a slender body shape, reaching a maximum size of 9.5 cm. The males possess elongated dorsal and anal fins, contributing to their elegant appearance. Their fins also display a distinctive red margin.
Habitat and Occurrence
Pseudanthias dispar is a common inhabitant of coral reefs, primarily found in the tropical Indo-Pacific region. They are typically observed in shallower waters, with a depth range of 0.0 – 18.0 meters. This species is particularly prevalent in the marine zones classified as the tropical Indo-Pacific.
Taxonomy
The species Pseudanthias dispar belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Perciformes, and Family: Serranidae. This family encompasses a diverse array of fish, including groupers, sea basses, and anthias.
Feeding
Pseudanthias dispar are carnivorous, primarily feeding on zooplankton. Their diet often includes a variety of small crustaceans, such as copepods and mysids, as well as brine shrimp. In captivity, they can be successfully fed a diet of commercially available frozen foods, such as mysis, brine shrimp, and cyclops.
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