How to Identify Scalefin Anthias

To identify Scalefin Anthias (Anthias squamipinnis), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Males are typically a vibrant magenta to reddish-orange with an elongated third dorsal spine and often a red or purple patch on the pectoral fin. Females are bright orange to golden-yellow with a more rounded caudal fin. Juveniles resemble females. Color intensity can vary with mood and health.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

superior

Distinctive features

Sexual dimorphism in coloration and fin morphology, Elongated third dorsal spine in males, Forked caudal fin, more pronounced in males, Small, ctenoid scales

Dorsal fin

X spines, 15-17 soft rays; third dorsal spine notably elongated in males.

Tail fin

Deeply forked, with pointed lobes, more so in males.

Pectoral fin

16-18 rays, often with a distinctive color patch in males.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are moderately long, reaching beyond the anus in some individuals.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Sexual Dimorphism

   Males are larger, more intensely colored (magenta/red-orange), possess an elongated third dorsal spine, and a more deeply forked caudal fin. Females are smaller, golden-yellow to orange, and lack the elongated dorsal spine.

2. 2

   Schooling Behavior

   Always observed in large, active schools hovering above coral formations, often with a single dominant male overseeing a harem of females.

3. 3

   Habitat

   Look for them in areas of strong current on reef slopes and drop-offs, where they can feed on passing zooplankton.

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