Lyretail Anthias (Male) 

Also known as Scalefin Anthias (Male), Sea Goldie (Male)

The male Lyretail Anthias is a spectacular showpiece fish displaying vibrant coloration with dramatically elongated lyre-shaped tail fins. This hardy and active species is one of the most popular anthias in the aquarium trade and an excellent choice for adding color and movement to reef aquariums.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Pseudanthias squamipinnis
• Common Names: Lyretail Anthias, Scalefin Anthias, Sea Goldie
• Adult Size: Up to 5 inches (including elongated tail)
• Lifespan: 5-7 years with proper care
• Temperament: Peaceful and highly social; does best with multiple females
• Reef Compatibility: Completely reef safe; will not harm corals or invertebrates
• Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons 
• Experience Level: Beginner to moderate; one of the hardiest anthias species

Habitat & Tank Requirements

• Tank Environment: Provide ample open swimming space with moderate to strong water flow. Include rockwork with caves and overhangs for shelter. Males establish display territories in open water but need retreat areas.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
  • Salinity: 1.023-1.025
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Stable water quality is important
• Equipment Recommendations:
  • Reliable protein skimmer
  • Quality filtration system
  • Powerheads for water circulation. These maintain the clean, oxygen-rich conditions this active species requires.

Diet & Feeding

Male Lyretail Anthias are planktivores with robust appetites. Recommended foods include:

• Staples: High-quality marine pellets, vitamin-enriched flake foods
• Frozen Foods: Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, cyclops, copepods, finely chopped krill
• Live Foods: Enriched brine shrimp, copepods (helpful during acclimation)
• Feeding Frequency: 2-3 times daily
• Special Note: Males readily accept prepared foods and are one of the easiest anthias to maintain

Social Structure & Group Dynamics

• Best Kept with Multiple Females: Ideal ratio is 1 male to 4-6 females
• Coloration: Males display stunning magenta-to-purple coloration with pink accents, elongated third dorsal spine, and distinctive lyre-shaped caudal fin with elongated outer rays
• Territorial Displays: Males establish territories and perform courtship displays for females
• Multiple Males: Can coexist in very large aquariums (180+ gallons) with adequate space and multiple females
• Note: Only one male will be dominant and display full breeding coloration

Notes & Considerations

• Among the hardiest and most adaptable anthias species, making them excellent for first-time anthias keepers.
• Males are visually stunning and provide a dramatic focal point in reef aquariums.
• Extremely active swimmers that add constant, dynamic movement.
• A secure aquarium lid is essential; excellent jumpers when startled.
• Peaceful toward all other species; may display minor territoriality toward other male Lyretails.
• If kept alone, males may become less colorful without females to court.
• Males can sometimes revert to female coloration if dominated by another male or due to stress.

Why Choose a Quarantined Lyretail Anthias (Male)?

Purchasing a quarantined specimen from us means you’re starting with a healthier, better-acclimated fish. All fish are observed, treated as needed, and conditioned to accept prepared foods before sale, giving you a stronger chance of long-term success with this spectacular and active species.