Ignitus Anthias

The Ignitus Anthias from the Maldives is also appropriately called the Flame Anthias. Gorgeous gradations of fiery reds, bold oranges, and vibrant yellows of the Ignitus Anthias add color and vitality to the FOWLR or reef aquarium.

The Ignitus Anthias does best when kept with its own species in an aquarium of at least 200 litres, but is also a beautiful fish for the fish only, invertebrate or reef aquarium. The Ignitus Anthias will predominantly occupy the middle of the aquarium, but appreciates the availability of several hiding places. Anthias should not be kept with aggressive fish or they become withdrawn from the rest of the community.

Anthias species all share the trait of being hermaphroditic. If a dominant male perishes, the largest female of the group will often morph to take its place. When courting, the coloration of the male Ignitus Anthias intensifies greatly and the bright red dorsal fin is held in an upright fashion.

The diet is consistent with other members of the Anthias group - zooplankton and floating filamentous algae. In the aquarium, it should be fed a varied diet of mysis shrimp, vitamin-enriched brine shrimp, frozen preparations and other meaty items for zooplankton feeders, small quantities of food several times per day.