Stocky Anthias 

Also known as Hawaiian Longfin Anthias, Fathead Anthias

The Stocky Anthias is a beautiful and relatively hardy species displaying a pale pink, a reddish or orange body and a red spot on the dorsal fin. This peaceful anthias is more adaptable to aquarium life than many Indo-Pacific species, making it an excellent choice for moderately experienced anthias keepers.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Pseudanthias hypselosoma
• Common Names: Stocky Anthias, Hawaiian Longfin Anthias, Thompson’s Anthias
• Adult Size: Up to 7 inches
• Lifespan: 5-8 years with proper care
• Temperament: Peaceful and social; best kept in groups
• Reef Compatibility: Completely reef safe; will not harm corals or invertebrates
• Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons minimum; 180+ gallons preferred for groups
• Experience Level: Moderate; one of the hardier large anthias species

Habitat & Tank Requirements

• Tank Environment: Provide substantial open swimming areas with moderate to strong water flow. Include plenty of rockwork with caves and overhangs for shelter. This species appreciates deeper aquariums that mimic their natural habitat on reef slopes.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
  • Salinity: 1.023-1.025
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Maintain excellent water quality
• Equipment Recommendations:
  • High-quality protein skimmer
  • Robust filtration system
  • Powerheads for water movement These maintain the clean, oxygen-rich conditions this active species requires.

Diet & Feeding 

Stocky Anthias are planktivores with robust appetites. Recommended foods include:

• Staples: High-quality marine pellets, vitamin-enriched flake foods
• Frozen Foods: Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, krill, cyclops, copepods, finely chopped seafood
• Live Foods: Enriched brine shrimp, copepods (helpful during initial acclimation)
• Feeding Frequency: 2-3 times daily
• Special Note: Generally adapts well to pellet foods and is less demanding than many anthias species

Social Structure & Group Dynamics

• Best Kept in Groups: Ideal ratio is 1 male to 3-5 females
• Sexual Dimorphism: Males are larger and more robust with vibrant pink-to-purple coloration, yellow-orange accents, and elongated pelvic fins. Females are smaller with softer pink and yellow tones and shorter fins.
• Sequential Hermaphroditism: All are born female; dominant female transforms to male in the absence of a male
• Introduce Simultaneously: Add entire group together to establish natural social hierarchy
• Peaceful Nature: Less territorial than many large anthias species

Notes & Considerations

• Hawaiian endemic species; wild-caught specimens are less common due to collection restrictions, increasing their value.
• More robust and deeper-bodied than most anthias, contributing to their “stocky” appearance.
• Hardy and adaptable compared to many other large anthias species.
• Very active swimmers that utilize the full water column in larger aquariums.
• Secure aquarium lid is essential; capable jumpers when startled.
• Generally peaceful toward all tankmates including other anthias species.
• Males display beautiful elongated pelvic fins that add to their elegant appearance.
• Adapts well to captivity with proper acclimation and care.
• Can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures than many Indo-Pacific anthias.

Why Choose a Quarantined Stocky Anthias? 

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 beautiful and robust Hawaiian species.