Fin's Fish Guide
The Horsehead tilefish (Branchiostegus japonicus) is a saltwater fish of the family Malacanthidae that grows up to 46 cm.
Asia: China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Hong Kong, Japan, Ryukyu Is., Korea (South) and others
Description
The horsehead tilefish is a tilefish (Malacanthidae) from coastal waters of the northwest Pacific, off East Asia. The species grows to about 46 cm and has an elongate, red-silver body with yellow and pale accents and a high, steep head. As a bottom-dweller it digs burrows in sand and mud bottoms of the continental margin and searches for small crustaceans, molluscs and worms. It is an important food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Horsehead tilefish?
The Horsehead tilefish has an elongate, eel-like body and is mainly red-orange.
Where does the Horsehead tilefish live?
The Horsehead tilefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Hong Kong, Japan, Ryukyu Is., Korea (South) and others
How big does the Horsehead tilefish get?
The Horsehead tilefish grows to a maximum of about 46 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Horsehead tilefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Horsehead tilefish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Horsehead tilefish edible?
Yes, the Horsehead tilefish is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Horsehead tilefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Horsehead tilefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Branchiostegus
More from the family Malacanthidae
Want the complete picture on the Horsehead tilefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Horsehead tilefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.