Fin's Fish Guide
The Redback sand tilefish (Hoplolatilus marcosi) is a saltwater fish of the family Malacanthidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
The redback sand tilefish is a small tilefish from the Western Pacific. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a slender, white body with a conspicuous red to orange stripe along the back. As a bottom-dweller it lives in pairs on sand and rubble slopes near reefs, where it builds and guards a burrow into which it vanishes when threatened. It feeds on small zooplankton it snatches just above the bottom. The fish appears in the reef aquarium. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Redback sand tilefish?
The Redback sand tilefish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly white and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Red dorsal stripe; burrow-building sand tilefish in pairs
Where does the Redback sand tilefish live?
The Redback sand tilefish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Pacific
How big does the Redback sand tilefish get?
The Redback sand tilefish grows to a maximum of about 12 cm. On average the species is around 10 cm.
Is the Redback sand tilefish dangerous to humans?
No, the Redback 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 Redback sand tilefish edible?
The Redback sand tilefish is not usually 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 Redback sand tilefish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Redback sand tilefish is one of 12,519 species in the app.