Anthiases

Red Sea anthias (Pseudanthias taeniatus)

The Red Sea anthias (Pseudanthias taeniatus) belongs to the family Anthiadidae (anthiases) and is endemic to the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. It is an omnivore and usually seen in loose aggregations. It reaches about 10 cm and is found at 1–50 m depth. IUCN conservation status: Least Concern. It is not dangerous to divers.

Red Sea anthias (Pseudanthias taeniatus), a Red Sea fish of the anthiases family
Photo: iNaturalist / Wikimedia Commons

Quick facts

Scientific namePseudanthias taeniatus
FamilyAnthiases (Anthiadidae)
Common name (IT)Antias striato
Common name (EN)Red Sea anthias
Maximum size10 cm
Depth1–50 m
DistributionEndemic to the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden
IUCN statusLC — Least Concern

Description

Endemic to the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden; it does not occur elsewhere in the Indo-Pacific.

Where it lives

Endemic to the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden; it does not occur elsewhere in the Indo-Pacific.

  • Red Sea
  • Gulf of Aden

Frequently asked questions

What family does the Red Sea anthias belong to?
The Red Sea anthias (Pseudanthias taeniatus) belongs to the family Anthiadidae (anthiases).
Is the Red Sea anthias dangerous?
It is not dangerous to divers. As with any reef animal, do not touch or handle it.
Is the Red Sea anthias endemic to the Red Sea?
Yes — it lives only in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
How big does the Red Sea anthias get?
It reaches a maximum length of about 10 cm.

Explore the Red Sea anthias in 3D in the interactive atlas →