How to Identify Threadfin Anthias

To identify Threadfin Anthias (Nemanthias carberryi), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Males are typically more brightly colored than females, exhibiting a vibrant pink to reddish-orange body with a distinctive yellow stripe running from the snout through the eye to the caudal peduncle. The dorsal fin often has yellow or orange markings. Females are generally a paler pink or orange, sometimes with a less pronounced yellow stripe. Both sexes have a deeply forked caudal fin.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Elongated third dorsal fin spine in males, forming a prominent 'threadfin'., Vibrant pink/orange body coloration with a yellow stripe., Deeply forked caudal fin.

Dorsal fin

Dorsal fin with X spines and 16-17 soft rays. The third dorsal spine in males is greatly elongated, often extending beyond the caudal fin.

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are clear to slightly yellowish.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are relatively long, often reaching the anal fin origin.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Elongated Dorsal Fin Ray

   Look for the prominent, thread-like extension of the third dorsal fin spine, especially in males. This is the most distinguishing feature.

2. 2

   Coloration and Stripe

   Observe the overall pink to reddish-orange body color and the distinct yellow stripe running horizontally along the body, particularly from the snout through the eye.

3. 3

   Habitat and Behavior

   They are typically found in large, active schools in open water above coral reefs, feeding on plankton. Their schooling behavior is a good indicator.

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