Anthias - strength in numbers?

[gsiegel]

I have a 4 purple queen anthias which are out and about but they stay to one side of the tank and still seem uncertain about their tankmates (have only been in DT for about a week though).

Would they be better off with more anthias - kind of like the feeling of more security/strength in numbers? The other fish were of course curious for a couple of days but no one really bothers them.

 

[gsiegel]

Anyone?
Thinking of adding a trio of Lyretails.

 

[Dashiki]

Yes strength in numbers is best.

Your anthias have a poor history in captivity. Put a feeder on the tank and feed a small amount 5-6 times a day.

 

[ca1ore]

I have never attempted to keep purple queens given their dismal survival rate. I suppose the thing I would worry about is that Lyretails can be a bit chippy (tho not as bad as Bartletts) and might harass the PQs. But others here have more anthias experience than I do so they might demur.

 

[MIKE NY]

I have a large male Purple Queen with Lyretails and he holds his own once he settled in. I have him over a year and half now, but as mentioned other open water swimmers will help them feel at ease and multiple feedings are a must. Are they eating yet? NutrMar Ova, baby brine and other silumlar sized foods are a good start. It took me many months before it would take larger food items.

 

[gsiegel]

Thanks for the input. All four (1 male/3 females) are out and about and do seem to be eating some. They are gradually becoming more comfortable swimming throughout the tank which is great. I have added cyclopeeze to the daily feedings a few times per day which seems to have peeked their interest. Hopefully they will do well. Beautiful fish. Thanks for the feeding advice.

 

[ilikefish34]

I inquired about anthias stocking advice and a member here suggested that less aggressive species, like dispar or ignites, would help the more difficult to care for species adapt to aquarium life.

 

[eatbreakfast]

Randalls anthias and pulcherimus anthias also stay smaller and are less aggressive.

 

[reeferstace]

Ignitus or Carberryi are what I would add.

Good luck with your queens. There seems to be a bit more success with them than previously. They certainly are gorgeous fish.