Lyretail Anthias (Female)

Female Lyretail Anthias (Pseudanthias squamipinnis) are energetic, social, reef‑safe planktivores known for their bright orange coloration, constant mid‑water movement, and strong schooling behavior. They’re hardy for anthias, visually striking, and one of the most iconic reef fish in the hobby. Identity & Appearance Females are the classic look most people associate with Lyretails: • Vibrant orange body with a soft peach or yellow undertone • Large, expressive eyes adapted for spotting plankton • Rounded fins without the elongated streamers seen in males • Slight lavender or magenta highlights along the dorsal area • Adult size: 3–4 inches They are smaller, faster, and more social than the larger terminal males. Natural Habitat Lyretail Anthias are widespread across the Red Sea and Indo‑Pacific, forming large harems on reef slopes and drop‑offs. They hover in the water column, facing into the current, picking zooplankton from the flow. This constant movement is exactly why they need stable, oxygen‑rich aquariums. Behavior & Social Structure Female Lyretails are: • Highly social • Active mid‑water swimmers • Peaceful with most reef fish • Harem‑forming, with one male overseeing a group of females If no male is present, the dominant female will transition into a male over several weeks — a natural part of their biology. Aquarium Requirements Lyretail Anthias do best in: • 75+ gallon tanks for small groups • Strong, stable flow to mimic their natural environment • Open swimming space with rockwork below • Mature systems with excellent oxygenation They are active enough that cramped or low‑flow tanks can stress them. Diet These fish are planktivores with high metabolisms. They thrive on: • Frozen mysis • Calanus • Enriched brine • Copepods • High‑quality micro‑pellets • Multiple small feedings throughout the day Frequent feeding is the key to long‑term success. Reef Safety Female Lyretail Anthias are fully reef‑safe. They do not nip corals, do not bother clams, and ignore ornamental inverts. Their focus is entirely on suspended plankton. Hardiness Among anthias, Lyretails are considered one of the hardiest species. Once acclimated, they are durable, long‑lived, and excellent for both mixed reefs and SPS‑dominant systems. Their only real vulnerabilities are: • Underfeeding • Aggressive tankmates • Poor oxygenation • Small tanks that restrict movement