Bimac Anthias  

Also known as Bicolor Anthias, Twospot Anthias

The Bimac Anthias is a hardy and vibrant species that displays bold yellow and purple coloration. Native to the Indo-Pacific, this anthias is more robust than many of its relatives, making it an excellent choice for aquarists looking to keep their first anthias species.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Pseudanthias bimaculatus
• Common Names: Bimac Anthias, Bicolor Anthias, Twospot Basslet
• Adult Size: Up to 5 inches
• Lifespan: 5-7 years with proper care
• Temperament: Peaceful and social; best kept in groups
• Reef Compatibility: Completely reef safe; will not harm corals or invertebrates
• Minimum Tank Size: 100 gallons (for a small group); 125+ gallons for larger harems
• Experience Level: Moderate; one of the hardier anthias species

Habitat & Tank Requirements

• Tank Environment: Provide open swimming areas with moderate water flow. Include rockwork with caves and ledges for shelter. Live rock supports natural grazing behavior.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
  • Salinity: 1.023-1.025
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Maintain stable, high-quality water conditions
• Equipment Recommendations:
  • Efficient protein skimmer
  • Quality filtration system
  • Moderate water circulation.

Diet & Feeding

Bimac Anthias are planktivores requiring multiple daily feedings. Recommended foods include:

• Staples: High-quality marine pellets, vitamin-enriched flake foods
• Frozen Foods: Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, cyclops, finely chopped krill
• Live Foods: Enriched brine shrimp, copepods (helpful during acclimation)
• Feeding Frequency: 2-3 times daily minimum
• Special Note: This species adapts more readily to pellet foods than many other anthias

Social Structure & Group Dynamics

• Best Kept in Groups: Ideal ratio is 1 male to 3-5 females
• Sexual Dimorphism: Males display vibrant purple/magenta coloration with yellow accents and two distinctive spots (hence “Twospot”). Females are predominantly yellow-orange with less intense coloration.
• Sequential Hermaphroditism: All are born female; dominant female will transform to male if needed
• Introduce Simultaneously:  Add all fish together to reduce aggression

Notes & Considerations

• More adaptable to aquarium life than many anthias species, making it beginner-friendly within the anthias family.
• Active swimmers that add constant movement to the aquarium.
• A secure aquarium lid is essential as they can jump.
• Generally peaceful but males may squabble in smaller tanks.
• Less demanding with feeding frequency compared to more delicate anthias species.

Why Choose a Quarantined Bimac Anthias?

Purchasing a quarantined specimen from us means you’re starting with a healthier, better-acclimated fish. All fish are observed, treated as needed, and conditioned to accept prepared foods before sale, giving you a stronger chance of long-term success with this beautiful and resilient species.