The Stocky Anthias (Pseudanthias hypselosoma) offers reliable color, peaceful schooling behavior, and a proven record of thriving in established reef systems. Many hobbyists look for answers to common questions such as how big stocky anthias get, what stocky anthias eat, and whether anthias fish are hard to keep. This species solves those concerns by adapting well to meaty marine diets, maintaining stable behavior in groups, and staying reef safe in mixed coral tanks. With consistent feeding and proper tank space, they become active mid-water swimmers that bring movement and reliability to community aquariums. 

The Stocky Anthias shows pinkish-orange shading with males developing deeper red dorsal highlights and a thicker body profile. Females stay smaller with lighter tones and rounded tail edges. Sexual dimorphism becomes visible as dominant females gradually develop male coloration.

Care & Requirements

Stocky Anthias thrive in stable reef aquariums with consistent parameters and ample rockwork for shelter. They behave best when maintained as a harem group with one male and several females. Feeding multiple small meals of mysis, enriched brine, chopped marine meats, and small pellets keeps them active and supports natural energy use. A tight-fitting lid is important because they may jump when startled. A minimum of 120 gallons provides space for mid-water swimming and reduces stress within the group.

How often should Stocky Anthias be fed?
They benefit from two to three small feedings each day using meaty marine foods.

Do Stocky Anthias need a harem group?
They show stable behavior when kept as one male with several females.

Why is a tight lid important?
They may jump when startled, so covered tops reduce loss risk.

Tank Mates & Compatibility

This species mixes well with peaceful reef fish such as wrasses, chromis, gobies, dartfish, and non-aggressive tangs. They avoid conflict by staying in the water column and using rockwork when threatened. Avoid large predators or highly assertive species that may outcompete them for food. Group housing reduces stress and supports natural social structure.

Can Stocky Anthias live with aggressive fish?
They do best with peaceful species and may become stressed by dominant tank mates.

Will they nip corals or invertebrates?
They are reef safe and do not harm corals or typical invertebrates.

Can they be kept singly?
A single individual can adapt, but group housing provides more natural behavior.

Aquaculture/Availability

Currently, captive-bred specimens are not widely available; most trade relies on wild-caught collection from Indo-Pacific regions. Availability varies seasonally, and sizes may differ with collection periods. Wild-caught Stocky Anthias adapt reliably to home aquariums when acclimated gradually and fed consistently.

Are captive-bred Stocky Anthias ever offered?
They are not commonly available in captive-bred form at this time.

Do wild-caught individuals adapt well to aquariums?
They adjust reliably with stable conditions and regular feeding.

Are there seasonal availability changes?
Yes, supply may vary depending on collection cycles.

FAQ

How big do Stocky Anthias get in a home aquarium?
Stocky Anthias typically reach 15 to 19 cm depending on sex and aquarium conditions. Males may grow slightly larger and display deeper coloration. Consistent feeding and stable water quality help them reach their full size.

What do Stocky Anthias eat on a daily basis?
They prefer meaty marine foods such as mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, and small sinking pellets. Feeding two to three meals daily maintains energy and supports coloration.

Are Stocky Anthias hard to keep for beginners?
They require stable parameters and frequent feeding, making them better suited to intermediate aquarists. Once acclimated, they eat consistently and maintain predictable behavior.

Do Stocky Anthias change sex in the aquarium?
They are protogynous hermaphrodites, and the dominant female may transition to male if no male is present. This transition supports their natural hierarchy and behaviors.

What tank size is best for a small group?
A minimum of 120 gallons supports a small harem and provides enough space for swimming and social structure.

Are Stocky Anthias safe for SPS and LPS corals?
Yes, they do not disturb coral polyps and are fully reef safe.

Will Stocky Anthias get along with wrasses and tangs?
They mix well with peaceful wrasses and tangs that are not overly dominant.

How do you reduce stress during acclimation?
Dimming lights, using slow drip acclimation, and providing hiding spaces help them settle.

Can Stocky Anthias handle stronger flow?
They adapt to moderate flow that simulates natural reef currents, avoiding direct high-pressure jets.