Difficult Anthias Species

[yellow_dog]

Has anyone had luck with ventralis anthias? I'm asking because I am setting up a new tank later this summer (after a move) with the main species being a group of ventralis anthias. I've looked at both of S. Michael's books, but would like to know if anyone has actually kept these with some level of success and could share some tips. FWIW I've kept squarespot, bicolor, lyretail, and red-belted anthias with good success over the years.

 

[Len]

Same message I cross posted in RC (in case you don't follow some forums):

FWIW, I've never been able to sustain them for extended periods of time .... 2-3 months maximum. I've never personally heard reports of hobbyist being able to to husband this species either (both P.ventralis.ventralis and P.ventralis.hawaiianess). The problem I've encountered with this species is their unwillingness to feed, their shy disposition, and they're susceptibility to various external and internal diseases. I've heard the same from several hobbyists as well.

Personally, I'd go with another species of anthias. Ventralis simply don't fare very well in captivity.

 

[newreefman1]

I got a ventralis......im assuming my carpet anemone at it...its been gone almost 1 1/2 weeks..i saw it the 1st two days, then in the corner with the anemone, then never again..
A BEAUTIFUL fish, but I wont get one again .LOL

J