Latin name

Pseudanthias tuka

Other name

Purple queenfish, yellowstripe anthias.

Identification

Males have a pointed snout and long, dragging tail filaments. Male P. pascalus has spots on the dorsal fin, while the tail and dorsal fin of female P. evansi are completely yellow.

Features of fish fins

Dorsal spines (total): 10; Dorsal soft rays (total): 15 - 17; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 7 - 8. Males have more elongated soft dorsal fin rays.

Fish colouring

Both males and females have body coloration ranging from dark pink to purple. Males of this species are distinguished from males of P. pascalus by a yellowish snout. 

Distribution

Found in the tropical marine waters of Southeast Asia, from the Philippines to Australia and eastward to Fiji and the Society Islands. In Australia is known from the Great Barrier Reef in Queensland.

Habitat

A tropical marine species. Found mainly on continental reefs. Depth range from 2 to 40 m, usually 10 to 35 m.

Size

The maximum length of this species is 12 cm. 

Behavior

They are territorial and live in harem groups. Forms aggregations on the outer slopes of reefs.

Food and feeding habits

They feed on planktonic crustaceans and fish eggs.

Reproduction

The male guards the territory and dominates the females. In turn, there is a rigid hierarchy in the group of females, with the largest individual occupying the dominant position. This species is characterized by protogynous hermaphroditism: the female can turn into a male, but in harems this is prevented by the dominant male.

Fishing

Have no commercial value in the fishery. Fished for sale to aquariums.

Relationship with a person

Harmless. These fish are can be aggressive toward peaceful aquarium mates, including members of their own species.