Pseudanthias leucozonus, also known as the White-bar Anthias, is an enchanting marine fish that hails from the southern seas of Japanese waters. For a long time, it was regarded as a Japanese endemic, but in recent years, we’ve been fortunate to witness sporadic appearances of these stunning fairy basslets emerging from Bali, making them more accessible to enthusiasts.
Here are some captivating details about the White-bar Anthias:
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Appearance: Males of P. leucozonus possess a white bar that runs vertically down their body, which gives them their common name. Their coloration includes shades of rose, pink, orange, and yellow, with purple-black edging on their dorsal and tail fins. During courtship, males intensify their color display. Females, although rarely seen in the trade, have a more subdued appearance, resembling a drab orangey base. Interestingly, in the wild, the ratio of females is much higher than what we observe in captivity.
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Habitat: These anthias inhabit deep waters, typically at depths ranging from 197 to 712 feet (60 to 217 meters). Their natural environment contributes to their unique coloration and behavior.
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Aquarium Care: They are peaceful and active fish that won’t bother corals or invertebrates. However, they do have a tendency to jump, so a tight-fitting canopy is essential. When introducing them to your tank, entice them with live brine shrimp or frozen mysis. Regular meals should include a variety of enriched frozen brine shrimp, mysis, and other marine meats.
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Challenges: Collectors often prioritize colorful males, resulting in a scarcity of females. In the wild, the situation is reversed, with more females present. Perhaps keeping multiple males together could help retain their vibrant hues.
In summary, the White-bar Anthias is a rare gem that adds vibrancy and elegance to any reef or fish-only aquarium. 🌊🐠
