Ignitus Anthias Fish - Male
The Male Ignitus Anthias (Pseudanthias ignitus), is also called the Flame Anthias and by nature is hermaphroditic, meaning all are born females, and when needed the dominant female turns into male. They are a beautiful and vibrant fish that is commonly kept in saltwater aquariums. As with all fish, providing the proper care is essential to their health and well-being. Here is a care guide for female Ignitus Anthias.
Aquarium Setup:
The Ignitus Anthias requires an aquarium that is at least 50 gallons in size, although a larger tank is recommended. The aquarium should have plenty of live rock and coral for hiding places and to create a natural environment. It is important to ensure that the aquarium has good water flow and proper lighting. The ideal temperature for the aquarium should be between 72°F and 78°F, and the pH level should be between 8.1 and 8.4.
Diet:
The Ignitus Anthias is a carnivore and requires a diet that is rich in protein. They should be fed a varied diet of frozen or live foods, such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, krill, and chopped seafood. It is recommended to feed small amounts several times a day rather than one large meal.
Water Quality:
Maintaining good water quality is essential to the health of the Ignitus Anthias. Regular water changes should be performed to keep the water clean and healthy. The water should be tested regularly to ensure that the levels of ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH, and salinity are within the acceptable range.
Tank Mates:
The Ignitus Anthias is generally peaceful and can be kept with other non-aggressive fish in the aquarium. However, it is recommended to keep only one male with several females or a group of females to reduce aggression. Avoid keeping them with larger, aggressive fish that may bully or eat them.
Behavior:
The Ignitus Anthias is a social fish and should be kept in groups of three or more. They are active swimmers and require plenty of open space in the aquarium. It is important to provide hiding places and territories for each fish to reduce aggression.
Disease:
Like all fish, the Ignitus Anthias is susceptible to diseases such as ich, velvet, and bacterial infections. It is important to monitor the fish for any signs of illness, such as decreased appetite, lethargy, or abnormal behavior. Quarantine new fish before adding them to the aquarium to prevent the spread of disease.
In summary, the Ignitus Anthias is a beautiful and colorful fish that requires a proper aquarium setup, a varied and protein-rich diet, good water quality, and compatible tank mates. With proper care, these fish can thrive in a home aquarium for many years.