Anthias - purple queen
The Queen Purple Anthias, scientifically known as Pseudanthias tuka, is a stunning and popular species among marine aquarium enthusiasts. Here's an overview of this beautiful fish along with care guidelines:
Description: The Queen Purple Anthias is named for its striking purple coloration, which is more prominent in males. Males typically display a vibrant purple or magenta body with contrasting yellow markings on the dorsal fin and tail. Females and juveniles have more subdued coloration, often exhibiting shades of pink or orange. They have elongated bodies with forked tails and prominent dorsal fins, adding to their graceful appearance.
Care Requirements:
Tank Size: Provide a spacious aquarium of at least 75 gallons for a small group of Queen Purple Anthias. They thrive in environments with plenty of open swimming space and hiding spots.
Water Parameters: Maintain stable water conditions with a temperature range of 72-78°F (22-25°C), pH between 8.1-8.4, and specific gravity of 1.020-1.025.
Diet: Queen Purple Anthias are planktivores, primarily feeding on zooplankton and small crustaceans in the wild. Offer a varied diet consisting of high-quality marine flakes, pellets, frozen or live foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, and small planktonic organisms. Provide small, frequent feedings throughout the day to mimic their natural feeding behavior.
Tank Environment: Create a habitat with live rock structures, caves, and ample hiding spots to mimic their natural reef environment. Moderate to high lighting and water flow are ideal for maintaining water quality and promoting natural behaviors.
Compatibility: Queen Purple Anthias are generally peaceful but can be territorial towards conspecifics (members of the same species) and other Anthias species, especially males. Keep them in small groups consisting of one male with multiple females to minimize aggression. Exercise caution when housing with aggressive tank mates or species that may harass them.
Reef Compatibility: Queen Purple Anthias are considered reef safe and can be housed in reef aquariums without causing harm to corals or other invertebrates. Their small size and peaceful nature make them excellent additions to community reef tanks, adding color and activity to the aquarium.
By providing proper care, suitable tank conditions, and a varied diet, you can ensure the health and well-being of Queen Purple Anthias in captivity. Regular monitoring of water parameters and attention to their social dynamics will help maintain a thriving aquarium environment.
