Product Description
The Red Bar Anthias (Pseudanthias cooperi) is a beautifully coloured reef fish known for its vivid orange-red body and striking horizontal red bar markings. Males typically display more intense coloration, while females are slightly softer in tone, creating a dynamic and visually appealing group display in reef aquariums.
This species is best kept in groups within large, established marine systems where they can exhibit natural schooling behaviour in the water column. Their constant activity and vibrant colouring make them a standout addition to reef displays.
Care Guide
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Scientific Name: Pseudanthias cooperi
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Common Name: Red Bar Anthias
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Care Level: Moderate
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Temperament: Peaceful (schooling species)
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Diet: Planktivore (mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, zooplankton, marine pellets)
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Reef Safe: Yes
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Minimum Tank Size: 350 litres (larger recommended for groups)
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Water Temperature: 24–27°C
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pH: 8.1–8.4
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Salinity: 1.023–1.026 SG
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Maximum Size: Up to 10cm
Feeding
Feed small, frequent meals 2–3 times daily. Requires a varied plankton-rich diet including frozen mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, copepods, and high-quality marine micro-pellets to maintain health and colouration.
Aquarium Setup
Provide a mature reef aquarium with strong flow, open swimming space, and secure live rock structures for shelter. Stable water quality is essential due to their high-energy feeding requirements.
Compatibility
Suitable with:
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Clownfish
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Wrasses
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Gobies
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Blennies
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Tangs
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Other peaceful reef species
Avoid housing with:
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Aggressive or predatory fish
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Poor water quality systems
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Insufficient tank size or flow
The Red Bar Anthias is a vibrant and active schooling species that brings movement, colour, and energy to reef aquariums, making it an excellent choice for experienced marine aquarists.
