Dispar Anthias (Pseudanthias dispar) – A Colorful, Active Reef Fish
The Dispar Anthias (Pseudanthias dispar) is a small, energetic anthias species prized for its bright orange-pink body and constant mid‑water activity. Also known as the Madder Seaperch, this fish brings motion and color to the upper water column of a reef tank. With the right tank size, diet, and social structure, Dispar Anthias can be hardy and rewarding additions to a peaceful community reef.
Natural Behavior and Ideal Tank Setup
Dispar Anthias come from Indo-Pacific reef slopes, where they form loose harems hovering in the current and darting for plankton. Understanding this natural behavior helps you design a tank where they feel secure.
Tank Size and Aquascape
- Minimum tank size: 70–90 gallons for a small group (one male with 3–6 females).
- Swimming space: Provide long, open areas in the upper and mid-water column.
- Rockwork: Create caves, arches, and overhangs so the fish can retreat when startled.
- Flow: Moderate, somewhat turbulent flow mimics their natural environment and helps keep food suspended.
If you are planning a community reef, read our guide on peaceful reef fish compatibility to choose suitable tankmates for Dispar Anthias.
Water Parameters
- Temperature: 76–80°F (24–27°C)
- Salinity: 1.024–1.026 specific gravity
- pH: 8.1–8.4
- Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm, Nitrate preferably < 15 ppm
Stable, clean water is crucial. Anthias are sensitive to poor water quality, so a reliable protein skimmer and regular water changes are strongly recommended.
Feeding Dispar Anthias and Social Dynamics
Like other anthias, Dispar Anthias are planktivores that naturally pick off tiny crustaceans drifting in the water column. Their fast metabolism means they do best with smaller, more frequent meals.
Diet and Feeding Tips
- Offer a mix of frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, and finely chopped marine meaty foods.
- Use high-quality marine pellets and flakes designed for carnivores or omnivores as staple foods.
- Feed 2–3 times per day in small portions so food stays in the water column where they naturally feed.
- Target-feed timid individuals with a turkey baster or feeding tube if they are outcompeted.
Hobbyist tip: Automatic feeders can help maintain a consistent feeding schedule. Just be sure to balance dry food with frozen offerings to keep their diet varied and nutritious.
For broader nutrition guidance, see our article on feeding saltwater fish for long-term health.
Harem Structure and Aggression
Dispar Anthias are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning dominant females can change into males. In captivity, they are usually kept in a harem with one male and several females.
- Start with a group of all juveniles or females and allow one to transition into a male.
- Avoid mixing multiple males in smaller tanks; this can lead to persistent aggression.
- Provide hiding spots so subdominant fish can escape the attention of the dominant male.
If you are new to anthias, you may also want to compare them with other species in our overview of best anthias for reef tanks before choosing your group.
Compatibility, Health, and Final Thoughts
Dispar Anthias generally coexist well with other peaceful reef fish such as fairy wrasses, flasher wrasses, tangs, and clownfish. Avoid housing them with large, aggressive predators or very boisterous species that may outcompete them for food.
Common health concerns include stress-related issues from poor acclimation, bullying, or inadequate diet. Quarantine new fish when possible, acclimate slowly, and observe for signs of rapid breathing, fin damage, or refusal to eat.
When given stable water conditions, frequent feedings, and an appropriate social group, Dispar Anthias can thrive and become a highlight of your reef aquarium. Their constant motion and vivid coloration bring life to the upper levels of the tank, making them a favorite among hobbyists who are ready to meet their slightly more demanding care needs.
Sources
- Michael, S. (2001). Reef Fishes Volume 1. Microcosm Ltd.
- Fenner, R. (2008). The Conscientious Marine Aquarist. TFH Publications.
- FishBase: Pseudanthias dispar species summary (accessed 2024).
- General husbandry consensus from experienced marine aquarists and public aquarium practices.
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