The Pseudanthias bartlettorum, commonly known as the Bartlett’s Anthias, is a brilliantly colored yet rare species of anthias native to the central Pacific. It is found mainly around the Marshall and Line Islands, where it inhabits clear outer reef slopes in plankton-rich waters. Due to its limited distribution and low collection numbers, it is seldom available in the aquarium trade.
The Bartlett’s Anthias stands out for its striking two-tone coloration. The front half of the body glows bright yellow, blending into vivid magenta to violet toward the tail. This diagonal color transition gives the fish a luminous, eye-catching appearance. Males are more intensely colored and have slightly elongated dorsal fins, while females are smaller and paler. Under aquarium lighting, both sexes exhibit exceptional brilliance, making this species a true highlight in any reef display.
Like other anthias, Pseudanthias bartlettorum lives in harems or small social groups in the wild, with one dominant male leading several females. If the male disappears, a female can transform into a new male – a characteristic feature of this genus. In captivity, keeping them in groups best supports their natural behavior and vivid coloration.
Reaching up to about 9 cm in length, the Bartlett’s Anthias remains relatively small and is well-suited for reef aquariums of 400 liters or more. It is an active midwater swimmer that thrives in tanks with open swimming space and moderate current. Because it naturally feeds on plankton throughout the day, it requires multiple small feedings daily of fine frozen or live foods such as mysis, cyclops, artemia, or lobster eggs, supplemented with high-quality micro-pellets.
Due to its rarity and sensitivity, Pseudanthias bartlettorum is a prized collector’s species best kept by experienced aquarists. In a stable, peaceful reef environment, it displays stunning coloration and fascinating group dynamics.
Profile
Scientific Name: Pseudanthias bartlettorum
Common Name: Bartlett’s Anthias
Origin: Central Pacific (Marshall Islands, Line Islands)
Adult Size: approx. 9 cm
Recommended Tank Size: from 400 liters
Diet: Fine frozen and live foods (mysis, cyclops, artemia), micro-pellets, planktonic foods
Difficulty Level: Advanced
Temperament: Peaceful; best kept in groups (1 male with several females)
Special Notes: Very rare in the trade; brilliant yellow-magenta coloration; protogynous sex change
Summary
The Pseudanthias bartlettorum is a rare and exceptionally beautiful anthias species from the central Pacific. Its vivid two-tone coloration and dynamic social behavior make it one of the most stunning, yet delicate, jewels for advanced reef aquarists.
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