TAXONOMY
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii (ray-finned fishes)
Order: Perciformes (Perch-likes)
Family: Serranidae (Sea basses: groupers and fairy basslets)

Subfamily: Anthiinae (Anthias)

Genus/species: Pseudanthias tuka

Male below

Purple AnthiasI MG_2808

GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS: Sexes bichromatic. Both sexes are a deep pink to purple; however, females have a bright yellow stripe on the back extending onto the caudal fin. Males have a purple blotch on the base of the dorsal fin, elongated fin rays, and a pointed snout Max. size: 12 cm.

DISTRIBUTION/HABITAT: Indo-Pacific: Philippines, Bali, Solomon Islands, Great Barrier Reef, Japan. Habitat: Favor strong currents along the edge of drop-offs and steep outer reef slopes at depths of 30 m or more.

Female below

Purple Anthias (female) IMG_7268
DIET IN THE WILDt: Planktonic crustaceans and fish eggs.

REPRODUCTION: As in all Anthias species, if a dominant male dies, the largest female will usually change into a male and take his place.

REMARKS: Usually found in large aggregations with many more females than males.

Animal Attractions SP14, Philippine Coral Reef PR04

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