Description:
The Ignitus Anthias is found in the eastern Indian Ocean and far western Pacific Ocean in the Maldives, the Andaman Islands, Similan Islands in Thailand, and around Sumatra. This gorgeous fish is a member of the Serranidae family. The head and body of males are orange, reddening towards the back and tinged with lavender towards the belly and abdomen. The bottom part of the head is pale yellow and there is an orange strip with lavender edges which runs from the tip of the snout, through the bottom half of the eye to the edge of the gill cover just in front of the pectoral fin. The iris is orange and lavender below and greenish above. There is a small red spot at the base of the pectoral fin. The dorsal fin is bright red with a purple edge and a yellow base which broadens onto the fin rays. The anal fin is lavender while the caudal fin is orange on the base becoming redder on its lobes. Females have similar coloring, but their coloration is usually a little less intense. A Flame Anthias can reach up to 3.5 inches in length and requires an aquarium of at least 70 gallons with plenty of room to swim.
Diet:
Ignitus Anthias are carnivorous. They will accept flake foods sometimes, but for good nutrition, they need small meaty meals like Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, amphipods, and/or prepared or frozen offerings. The key to keeping anthias is to feed them at least twice per day as they prefer frequent small meals. If you find your Flame Anthias is not eating the foods you offer, it is recommended you offer live foods to spark interest in eating.
Behavior:
As stated earlier, a Flame Anthias can reach up to 3.5 inches and requires an aquarium of at least 70 gallons. This is a rewarding fish to add for those who spend a lot of time viewing their aquarium. They can be a little shy when they first arrive, but that usually only lasts for a few days. These fish are often kept as a group of females (3-10) with 1 male. Anthias are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning these fish can change sex. If the male dies, the largest female will turn into the new male of the group. If you decide you want to keep a harem of anthias rather than just 1, it is recommended that your tank be at least 125 gallons. If you intend to keep fish, a netted lid is recommended.