Tilefish – Dusky

Dusky Tilefish Care Tips:

Minimum Tank Size: 100 Gallons *Tight fitting lid required*

Max Size: Up to 15 cm (6″)

Diet: Carnivore

Temperament: Peaceful

Lifespan: Up to 6 years

Scientific Name: Hoplolatilus Cuniculus

Coral Safe: Yes

Invertebrate Safe: Yes with caution (May go after small ornamental shrimp)

Approx. Purchase Size: 4 – 5 inches

The dusky tilefish, scientific name Hoplolatilus Cuniculus is a peaceful fish. Their minimum tank is 100 gallons. Dusky tilefish can grow up to 6” and can live up to 6 years. Tilefish are carnivores and should be fed with frozen foods such as mysis or brine shrimp. Tilefish are normally kept in mated pairs but they can also be kept alone, if one of the members die, a new mate can be introduced. Tilefish will not bother coral or invertebrates except for small ornamental shrimp such as sexy shrimp or pederson shrimp. Tilefish will not bother larger shrimp such as coral banded and skunk cleaner shrimp. Dusky tilefish will create a burrow in the sand underneath some rocks to live and sleep in together. When they are scared and first introduced into the tank they will stay in their burrow for most of the time but as they get more comfortable they will be seen swimming out in the open during the day and only go to their burrow at night. Tilefish are known for jumping out of tanks with no lid, a tight fitting lid is recommended.