Compsanthias ventralis lives relatively deep on the seaward reef. I have to admit to having some questions about this one. Kwajalein specimens seem to differ greatly in color from those photographed in other areas. However, it is said to vary considerably in color and those from Kwajalein are considered to fall within the range of the species' variation. Males and females also differ in color. The first three photos show males.
The rest are females.
Created 5 June 2010
Updated 28 July 2024