Articles and photos by
Scott W. Michael and Keisuke Imai
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In this guide to Japanese Basslets, we will take a look at some of the fishes
of the subfamily Anthinnae. These include some of the most stunning fishes in the sea!
In Japan, there are locations where one can observe some of the deepwater basslets at relatively
safe diving depths. We will discuss the natural history of these and other basslets, including
some new information on the taxonomy of members of the genus Pseudanthias and photos
of some of the odd fishes known as perchlets (genus Plectranthias).
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The waters of Japan are home to some of the most amazing reef creatures on the planet. This
is in part due to the fact the environmental conditions are quite varied off
certain parts of the Japanese coastline.In the north, the waters are cold, while in southern
Japan, lush coral gardens grow.
In between these two extremes, one can find an amazing marine fauna, including
a wonderful basslet community.
About the Izu Peninsula
The Izu Peninsula is one of the most popular dive sites in Japan - and for good
reason! This is a great place to observe some of the amazing Japanese basslets. In this section,
we will look at the environmental characteristics around Izu.
more ....
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Deepwater Anthias
Some of the most spectacular of all the basslets belong to the genus
Tasanoides. Learn about the species from Izu reefs.
more ....
Lyretail Anthias
Learn about new species related to the ubiquitous lyretail anthias, including a newly recognized species
from Japan!
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Photo Gallery
Ozesaki Virtual Dive
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Anthias in the
Genus Pseudanthias
The genus Pseudanthias is the largest genus of anthias with
approximately 35 species. There are, not surprisingly,
many representatives from the genus on the reefs of Izu. In this section, we will look at some of
the more unique species that occur in this region.
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Other Basslets
Although most members of the subfamily Anthinnae are quite similar in
form and behavior, there are some real odd-balls in the group. In this section you will learn
about some members of this subfamily that you may have never seen before, including
the hawkfish-like relatives of the anthias known as perchlets!
more ....
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