Fathead Anthias (Serranocirrhitus latus)

The Fathead Anthias (Serranocirrhitus latus) is a uniquely shaped and rarely encountered deepwater anthias species with a distinctively deep, compressed body profile quite unlike the slender form of typical Lyretail or Squarespot Anthias. Its beautiful pink and yellow coloration is delicate and refined, and its deepwater origins mean it benefits from subdued lighting and slightly cooler temperatures compared to most reef fish. It feeds readily on meaty frozen foods once acclimated and is generally a peaceful, non-aggressive addition to carefully selected tank communities. A prized species for serious collectors and advanced marine aquarists.

House in a minimum 300-liter aquarium with subdued to moderate lighting and cooler temperatures of 22–25°C that reflect its deepwater origins. Avoid bright intense LED lighting — provide shaded areas with overhangs and caves. Feed multiple small meals daily with frozen mysis, enriched brine shrimp, cyclopeeze, and marine pellets. Generally solitary or kept as bonded pairs — avoid multiple males. Peaceful with most reef inhabitants of similar or larger size.