Roughlip Anthias (Anthias asperilinguis)
Fish in the family Serranidae. Hard care. Reef Safe.
Quick facts
Appearance
The Roughlip Anthias is a small serranid with a slender body, typically displaying orange to deep red coloration on the head and upper body, fading to pink or white on the lower body and fins. Distinguishing features include a notably thick, textured lip (hence "roughlip") and elongated dorsal spine rays. Males often exhibit more intense coloration and slightly larger dorsal extensions than females.
Diet and feeding
In captivity, offer frequent small meals of meaty planktonic foods: high-quality frozen mysis shrimp, copepods, and specialized small-particle pellets designed for planktivorous fish. Feed 2–3 times daily in small portions to match their natural feeding behavior.
Difficulty and care for the Roughlip Anthias
The Roughlip Anthias is a challenging species best suited for experienced reef aquarists. It requires a mature, well-established reef with stable water parameters, frequent small meals of appropriate planktonic foods, and low aggression from tankmates. Deep-water species do not adapt quickly to bright aquarium lighting.
Common health issues
Starvation (if food too large or infrequent), parasitic infections, bacterial infections, loss of color under poor conditions
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific region, including areas from the Red Sea and East Africa through Indonesia to the Philippines and the Great Barrier Reef. Found on deep coral reef slopes and drop-offs, typically at depths of 40–200 meters or more.
Log Roughlip Anthias in your reef tank
Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Roughlip Anthias alongside everything else in your reef.
