Bartlett's Anthias

Bartlett's Anthias is a beautifully colored species native to the reef slopes of the western Pacific, where it forms large aggregations above coral outcroppings. Males display a striking combination of violet to magenta along the dorsal portion with a bright yellow underside and tail, while females are a softer lavender-pink with a yellow dorsal edge. Both sexes exhibit the graceful, flowing swimming motion characteristic of anthias.

Considered one of the hardier anthias species available, Bartlett's Anthias is a good choice for aquarists looking to keep anthias for the first time. It adapts more readily to captive foods than many of its relatives and can tolerate minor fluctuations in water quality better than more sensitive species. Nonetheless, frequent feeding remains essential, as its high metabolism demands multiple small meals throughout the day.

Bartlett's Anthias is best maintained in small groups of one male and three to five females in a tank with ample open swimming space and moderate to strong water flow. Like all anthias, this species is a protogynous hermaphrodite, with the dominant female transitioning to male if the existing male is removed. Their peaceful nature, manageable hardiness requirements, and beautiful coloration make them an excellent schooling fish for medium to large reef aquariums.