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The Scribbled Anthias (Pseudanthias pictilis) is a mid-sized reef fish known for its stunning colouration and graceful swimming patterns. Males typically display intense pinks and purples with an almost ‘scribbled’ appearance across their body, which gives them their common name. Females are more subdued in colour but equally elegant. These fish are peaceful and often swim in small groups, making them an excellent choice for community reef tanks. One unique trait is their ability to change sex from female to male when the dominant male is removed from the group. This social hierarchy makes them fascinating to observe and adds to their appeal for dedicated hobbyists. I’ll never forget the first time I spotted one in my local aquarium shop—its vibrant colours instantly hooked me, sparking my journey into understanding its care needs. In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to keep your scribbled Anthias fish thriving, from tank setup to feeding and health tips.
Choosing Your Scribbled Anthias Fish
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Setting Up the Perfect Tank
Scribbled Anthias thrive in a well-established reef tank with plenty of live rock, caves, and open swimming space. A tank size of at least 300 litres is recommended, especially if you plan to keep a small group. Water temperature should be maintained between 24°C and 26°C, with a stable salinity around 1.025. These fish prefer moderate to strong water flow to mimic their natural reef environment. Adequate lighting and high-quality filtration are essential, as Anthias can be sensitive to poor water conditions. Consider using a protein skimmer to maintain water clarity and nutrient control. Ensure you provide hiding spaces to reduce stress and encourage natural behaviour.
Feeding Your Scribbled Anthias Fish
Scribbled Anthias are planktivores by nature, feeding on zooplankton and small crustaceans in the wild. In captivity, they should be given a varied diet that includes finely chopped meaty foods like mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, and specially formulated marine pellets. Feeding should be done in small amounts two to three times per day, as their high metabolism requires frequent nourishment. Avoid overfeeding and remove any uneaten food to prevent water quality issues. If you keep multiple Anthias, ensure food is spread evenly in the tank to avoid competition and ensure all fish are eating well. A high-quality diet will not only keep them healthy but also enhance their vivid colours.
Health and Maintenance
While Scribbled Anthias are generally hardy, they can be prone to common marine fish ailments such as marine ich (white spot) and bacterial infections, especially if stressed or kept in subpar water conditions. Symptoms to watch out for include white spots, lethargy, clamped fins, and loss of appetite. It’s vital to quarantine new additions before introducing them to your main tank and to perform regular water tests. Keeping water parameters stable is your first line of defence against illness. In the event of disease, treatments like copper-based medication or freshwater dips may be needed, depending on the diagnosis. Regular observation and a strict maintenance routine will go a long way in keeping your Scribbled Anthias healthy and thriving.
Caring for a scribbled Anthias fish takes some effort, but the payoff is immense. With the right tank setup, a tasty and varied diet, and a bit of TLC, you’ll have a dazzling addition for your aquarium. Got any questions or your own Anthias tales? Drop them in the comments—I’d love to hear from you!
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