Japanese Anthias-Cherry

Japanese anthias.

These are a male and female caught pair housed together.

These are an extremely rare species to find and come across and are very verry rarely available in the industry globally.

Japanese Anthias (notably the Blotched/Borbonius, or Cherry/Sakura, Anthias) are deep-water, moderately hardy, and peaceful planktivores requiring large (>90 gal), established tanks with plenty of hiding spaces and live rock. They prefer lower light (initially) and cooler water.

Feed them multiple times daily with varied, high-quality,, small meaty items like mysis, krill, or frozen food, as they need consistent nutrition. 

Key Care Requirements

Tank Size & Environment: A minimum of 50-90+ gallons is recommended for these active swimmers. They require extensive live rock for hiding,, especially in lower-light, deep-reef setups.

Diet & Feeding: These fish have a high metabolism and require frequent, small feedings (multiple times per day). They prefer small, meaty foods such as fortified mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and copepods.

Water Conditions: Excellent water quality with moderate flow is essential.

Social Behavior: They are generally peaceful but can be territorial or shy when first introduced. They are known to form hierarchies, with the potential for the largest female to turn into a male.

Hardiness: While some, like the Cherry Anthias, are considered hardy, they are generally sensitive during transit and acclimation, often preferring dimmer lighting when first introduced.

Tank Mates: Best suited for community reef tanks; avoid aggressive fish that may compete for food or harass them. 

Common Species
Blotched Anthias (Holanthias borbonius): Known for being a hardy deep-water species, though they can be expensive.
Cherry/Sakura Anthias (Sacura margaritacea): Described as a hardy, large, and striking species.