Fin's Fish Guide
The Purple sand tilefish (Hoplolatilus purpureus) is a saltwater fish of the family Malacanthidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Asia: Solomon Is., Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Timor-Leste
Description
The purple sand tilefish is a tilefish (Malacanthidae) from the western Pacific. The species grows to about 13 cm and has a slender, purple to lavender body. As a bottom-dweller it builds a mound of coral rubble and pebbles with a burrow on rubble-strewn slopes of deeper reefs and hovers above it to snap at drifting zooplankton. When threatened it dives into its burrow. The fish is harmless to humans and is prized in the aquarium trade.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Purple sand tilefish?
The Purple sand tilefish has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly pink-purple.
Where does the Purple sand tilefish live?
The Purple sand tilefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Solomon Is., Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Timor-Leste
How big does the Purple sand tilefish get?
The Purple sand tilefish grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Purple sand tilefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Purple sand 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 Purple sand tilefish edible?
Yes, the Purple sand tilefish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hoplolatilus
More from the family Malacanthidae
Want the complete picture on the Purple sand tilefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Purple sand tilefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.