Bimaculatus Anthias: Female – (Pseudanthias bimaculatus)

Quick Stats:

• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet: Carnivore
• Reef Safe: Yes
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
• Max Size: 4 inches
• Water Parameters: pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.020-1.025, Temperature 72-78°F

Bimaculatus Anthias: Female – (Pseudanthias bimaculatus)

The Bimaculatus Anthias, also known as Pseudanthias bimaculatus, is a beautiful and popular species that can be found in the saltwater aquarium trade. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various aspects of keeping this fish in your saltwater aquarium.

Habitat

The Bimaculatus Anthias is native to the Indo-Pacific region, specifically around the Maldives, Indonesia, and the Philippines. They inhabit coral reefs and are usually found in deeper waters, around 30 to 60 feet deep. In the wild, they form schools and swim in open water areas.

Reef Safe

The Bimaculatus Anthias is considered reef safe, as it generally does not bother corals or other invertebrates. However, it’s important to note that individual fish may have different behavior, so caution should always be exercised.

Size

The Bimaculatus Anthias can grow up to 4 inches in length, with females being slightly smaller than males.

Temperament

These fish have a peaceful temperament and can be kept in community tanks with other peaceful fish species.

Sexual Dimorphism

The Bimaculatus Anthias exhibits sexual dimorphism, where males and females have different appearances. Males have vibrant colors with a bright orange body and a yellow tail, while females are more subdued, with a pinkish-orange body.

Lifespan

The average lifespan of the Bimaculatus Anthias is around 3 to 5 years, although, with proper care, they can live longer.

Diet in Aquariums

In the aquarium, the Bimaculatus Anthias is a carnivorous species. They should be fed a varied diet consisting of high-quality frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and small crustaceans. It’s important to provide multiple feedings throughout the day to ensure they receive enough nutrition.

Aquascaping Recommendations

When it comes to aquascaping, providing ample hiding places and open swimming areas is important for the Bimaculatus Anthias. Utilize live rocks and create caves or crevices where they can take refuge. This will help reduce stress and promote their natural behavior.

Captive Bred Availability

The Bimaculatus Anthias is not commonly available as a captive-bred species. Most individuals in the aquarium trade are wild-caught.

Compatibility with Other Fish, Invertebrates, or Corals

The Bimaculatus Anthias is generally peaceful and can be kept with other peaceful fish species in a community tank. However, it’s important to choose tankmates who are of a similar size and temperament to avoid any aggression or bullying. Some suitable tankmates for the Bimaculatus Anthias include:

1. Clownfish: They are peaceful and can coexist with the anthias without any issues.
2. Gobies: These bottom-dwelling fish can provide interesting interactions and do not pose a threat to the anthias.
3. Damsels: Certain species of damsels, like the Blue Devil Damsel or the Yellowtail Damsel, can be good tankmates as they are relatively peaceful and hardy.
4. Wrasses: Peaceful wrasses like the Six-Line Wrasse or the Fairy Wrasse can make good companions for the Bimaculatus Anthias.
5. Cleaner Shrimp: These invertebrates can help keep the tank clean and are unlikely to bother the anthias.

It’s important to research each specific species’ compatibility and ensure proper acclimation when introducing new fish to the tank.

Other Common Names

The Bimaculatus Anthias is also known as the Two-Spot Anthias or the Orange Anthias.

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Popular Questions about the Bimaculatus Anthias: Female – (Pseudanthias bimaculatus) in Saltwater Aquariums:

1. Q. What is the ideal tank size for a Bimaculatus Anthias?
   A. The minimum tank size for a Bimaculatus Anthias is 30 gallons. However, a larger tank with ample swimming space is recommended to accommodate their active nature.
2. Q. Can Bimaculatus Anthias be kept in a reef aquarium?
   A. Yes, Bimaculatus Anthias are considered reef safe and can be kept in a reef aquarium. They typically do not bother corals or other invertebrates.
3. Q. How can I differentiate between male and female Bimaculatus Anthias?
   A. Male Bimaculatus Anthias have vibrant colors with a bright orange body and a yellow tail, while females are more subdued, with a pinkish-orange body.
4. Q. What should I feed my Bimaculatus Anthias?
   A. Bimaculatus Anthias are carnivorous and should be fed a varied diet consisting of high-quality frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and small crustaceans.
5. Q. Can Bimaculatus Anthias be kept with aggressive fish species?
   A. No, Bimaculatus Anthias are peaceful and should not be kept with aggressive fish species. It’s important to choose tankmates that are of a similar size and temperament to ensure harmony in the aquarium.