Borbonius (blotchy) Anthia Add to Watch List Watching View Watchlist >

The Blotchy Anthias (Odontanthias borbonius) is a striking and relatively rare reef fish that has become highly sought after in the aquarium trade because of its unusual coloration and elegant appearance. Here’s an overview:

General Info

• Scientific name: Odontanthias borbonius

• Common names: Blotchy Anthias, Blotchy Seaperch, Borbonius Anthias

• Family: Serranidae (groupers and sea basses, which includes anthias)

• Distribution: Found in the Indo-Pacific, especially around deep reefs of the Philippines, Indonesia, and extending into the Indian Ocean.

Appearance

• They get their name from the pinkish to orange body with large, irregular reddish or purple blotches scattered across the sides.

• The fins often have yellow to orange highlights.

• Adults usually reach 5–7 inches (12–18 cm) in length.

• Their patterning is very different from most anthias, giving them a unique look.

Habitat & Behavior

• Blotchy Anthias live in deep-water reef slopes and drop-offs, usually at depths of 200–400 feet (60–120 m).

• In the wild, they are found in small groups or pairs, hovering near ledges and caves.

• Like other anthias, they are planktivores, feeding primarily on zooplankton carried by currents.

Aquarium Care

• Considered rare and expensive in the aquarium trade due to collection depth and difficulty.

• Require a large, well-established reef tank (at least 100+ gallons) with plenty of live rock and shaded areas.

• Prefer low to moderate lighting (to mimic deep reef habitat).

• Need frequent small feedings of meaty foods like mysis shrimp, copepods, enriched brine, and other planktonic fare.

• Generally peaceful, but best kept with other non-aggressive tankmates.