Pink Squareback Anthias Female

The Pink Square Anthias, *Pseudanthias pleurotaenia*, is a captivating and active addition to the reef aquarium. Males display a striking pink to reddish-purple body with a prominent, rectangular or square-shaped patch of pink or purple on their sides, while females are typically a more uniform orange-pink.

A minimum tank size of 70 gallons is recommended to provide ample swimming space and accommodate a small group. These fish are best kept in a harem of one male and several females. A well-established reef aquarium with plenty of live rock for hiding and perching is ideal. They are generally considered reef-safe, but caution should be exercised with very small ornamental shrimp.

The Pink Square Anthias is a planktivore in the wild and requires multiple small feedings throughout the day in the aquarium. Their diet should consist of a variety of high-quality marine foods such as enriched frozen mysis shrimp, enriched frozen brine shrimp, and other meaty preparations. They may also accept high-quality flake and pellet foods designed for marine fish.

Like other anthias, the Pink Square Anthias is a protogynous hermaphrodite, meaning all individuals are born female and the dominant female in a group will transition into a male. Breeding in captivity is rare.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Pseudanthias pleurotaenia
• Care Level: Intermediate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet: Carnivore
• Reef Compatibility: Reef Safe
• Region of Origin: Indo-Pacific
• Maximum Adult Size: 5"
• Recommended Tank Size: 75 gallons