Tilefish
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Scientific Name
Lopholatilus chamaeleonticeps
Common Names
Blue tilefish, Common tilefish, Great northern tilefish
Description
Tilefish can be identified by their interesting coloration. Occasionally the body can be covered with gold colored spots, though usually they sport a gold colored blue striped tail fin. Their side can have a mix of bluish green that blends to a pink hue down the side of the fish with a yellow-silver underside.
Habitat & Behaviour
Tilefish burrow down into the muddy bottoms of deeper sloping or shelf like ocean. During the day they hunt outside their burrows, and retain their burrows during lower activity filled nights.
Natural Prey
Tilefish feed mostly on bottom dwelling invertebrates and crustaceans. However, they will feed on small fish, worms and mollusks.
Handling Tips
Watch for spines on top and gill plate, which can sometimes be sharp.
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