Common name: Yellow tilefish

General information

The Golden Tilefish, Hoplolatilus luteus, is a stunning and somewhat rare addition to the marine aquarium. Known for its vibrant yellow coloration and peaceful demeanor, it is a member of the tilefish family Malacanthidae. This species is not as commonly available as some other marine ornamentals, making it a prized specimen for dedicated hobbyists.

Care

Golden Tilefish require a spacious aquarium with plenty of open sand bed for burrowing and rockwork to provide hiding places. They are generally peaceful but can be shy, so a calm tank environment with non-aggressive tank mates is essential. They thrive on a varied diet of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood.

Reproduction

In the wild, Golden Tilefish are known to form monogamous pairs and build burrows in the substrate where they lay their eggs. The male guards the nest. In the aquarium, breeding is rare, but providing a stress-free environment with ample space may encourage reproductive behavior.

Habitat

Hoplolatilus luteus is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Maldives to the Philippines, and as far south as Indonesia. They typically inhabit sandy areas adjacent to reefs at depths ranging from 10 to 70 meters, where they can quickly burrow into the substrate for protection.