Redfin Anthias

Photo: Bryan J · CC BY-NC

Redfin anthias form enormous colonies of thousands of fish hovering above the soft coral slopes of Fushivaru Thila, feeding on zooplankton transported by the current. They are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning the dominant female in any group will transition to become a functional male if the resident male dies, ensuring reproductive continuity. Their vivid colours and sheer density create a living curtain of pink and orange that defines the thila diving experience in the Maldives.