Anthias

[markak]

I was just wondering if Anthias species all share the trait of being hermaphroditic. Is it true for the opposite to apply that males can turn back into females? Or once they turn or start to turn into males they stay males? I have 4 anthias two females and one male that was a full turned male, and the other one I got was in the process of turning male. Now I have the full male chasing the other part male all the time. Should I try to catch the one being harassed, and see if a LFS will exchange it for a female?

 

[jetmaker]

Yes return it

 

[eatbreakfast]

They are capable of transitioning back before they are fully male, but that is rare. Some species are more aggressive with their own kind, but if chasing is bad, where the victim is forced into hiding, then there are two options. One option is to remove either the aggressor or the victim. The other option is to add more anthias of the same species to diffuse aggression. I would recommend against trading it in for a sole female. Females set up a hierarchy as well and asingle addition will be attacked as well.

 

[markak]

Thank you for the feedback. I don't think the turn over to male is complete. The he/she (victim) doesn't hide all the time, its out swimming around but when the full blown male notices he is chasing he/she into the rocks. But he/she comes right back out. Seems like only at feeding time is when the real aggression happens. I don't like to see someone being bullied.(why can't we all get along) I'll just turn a blind eye. Maybe I'll wait to see if he/she turns back to a female. Thank again everyone.

 

[eatbreakfast]

The behavior you are describing sounds fairly normal. As long as the 'victim' can be out and get food, he should be ok. Your dominant male's aggression is to keep his harem in check, gis biggest threat to supremacy is the submale right now.