Red Bar Anthias 

Also known as Redbar Anthias, Red-barred Anthias

The Red Bar Anthias is a stunning and moderately hardy species displaying vivid red bars over a pink-to-yellow body. This Pacific anthias brings brilliant color and graceful movement to reef aquariums and is more adaptable than many deepwater species.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Pseudanthias cooperi
• Common Names: Red Bar Anthias, Redbar Anthias, Cooper’s Anthias
• 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: 70 gallons minimum; 125+ gallons preferred for groups
• Experience Level: Moderate; requires attention to water quality and feeding

Habitat & Tank Requirements

• Tank Environment: Provide open swimming areas with moderate water flow and plenty of rockwork with caves and overhangs. Prefers areas with moderate lighting rather than intense illumination.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72-76°F (22-24°C) (slightly cooler preferred)
  • Salinity: 1.023-1.025
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Excellent water quality is essential
• Equipment Recommendations:
  • High-quality protein skimmer
  • Efficient filtration system
  • Moderate water circulation These maintain the pristine conditions this species requires.

Diet & Feeding

Red Bar Anthias are planktivores requiring frequent feedings. Recommended foods include:

• Staples: High-quality marine pellets, enriched flake foods
• Frozen Foods: Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, cyclops, copepods, finely minced krill
• Live Foods: Enriched live brine shrimp, copepods (especially helpful during acclimation)
• Feeding Frequency: 2-3 times daily minimum
• Special Note: May take time to adjust to prepared foods; patience during acclimation is important

Social Structure & Group Dynamics

• Best Kept in Groups: Ideal ratio is 1 male to 3-5 females
• Sexual Dimorphism: Males display brilliant red vertical bars over a pink-to-yellow base with purple tints on the fins. Females are paler yellow-pink with fainter red bars or spots.
• Sequential Hermaphroditism: All are born female; dominant female transforms to male when needed
• Introduce Simultaneously: Add entire group together to minimize stress

Notes & Considerations

• One of the most visually striking anthias with bold, contrasting coloration.
• Generally peaceful toward all tankmates including other anthias species.
• A secure aquarium lid is essential; capable jumpers.
• Initially may be shy but gains confidence when kept in groups.
• Males display intensified coloration during courtship displays.
• Prefers slightly cooler water temperatures than many other anthias.
• May be outcompeted for food by aggressive feeders; monitor feeding closely.

Why Choose a Quarantined Red Bar 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 brilliantly colored species.