Red Cheek Anthias

The red-cheek anthias, scientifically known as Pseudanthias huchtii, is a reef-dwelling fish from the Pacific Ocean, known for its vibrant colors and occasional appearance in the aquarium trade, sometimes also called the Huchtii Anthias, Red Cheek Fairy Basslet, or Green Anthias. 

Appearance:

• Coloration: Males are typically yellowish-green with a prominent orange stripe just behind the eye and electric blue outlines on their fins. Females are less brightly colored but retain the orange stripe. 
  
• Size: They can grow up to 12 cm (about 5 inches) in length. 
  

Habitat and Behavior:

• Origin:
  Native to the reefs of the Western Central Pacific Ocean, including Cebu and the Solomon Islands. 
  
• Social Behavior:
  They are active fish that often live in shoals or groups. 
  
• Territoriality:
  Within a shoal, males can be territorial and defend an area and a harem of females. 
  
• Hermaphroditism:
  Anthias species, including the red-cheek anthias, are hermaphroditic, meaning they can change sex, with dominant females potentially morphing into males if the dominant male dies. 
  

Aquarium Care:

• Tank Size:
  They are best kept in groups in an aquarium of at least 125 gallons. 
  
• Diet:
  They are carnivores and should be fed a varied diet of frozen mysis shrimp, enriched frozen brine shrimp, and high-quality flake foods. 
  
• Water Parameters:
  Maintain a temperature between 72-78°F (22-26°C), a pH of 8.1 to 8.4, and a salinity of 1.020 to 1.025. 
  
• Reef Compatibility:
  They are generally considered reef-safe and do not typically bother corals or other invertebrates. 
  
• Tank Mates:
  They are generally peaceful to mildly aggressive and can be kept with other peaceful to mildly aggressive fish. 
  

Other Notable Features:

• Common Names: Redcheek Anthias, Green Anthias, Huchtii Anthias, Threadfin Anthias, Pacific Basslet, Red Cheek Fairy Basslet.
• Aquarium Trade: They occasionally appear in the aquarium trade.