TilefishesMalacanthidae

Tilefishes (Malacanthidae) are marine fishes with elongate bodies, a single opercular spine, and long dorsal and anal fins. Two main body forms occur within the group: some species are slender and ribbon-like, while others are more robust with a rounded to slightly squarish head, often featuring a predorsal ridge. Species found in the 🌊 Red Sea measure between 13 cm (5 in) and 60 cm (24 in) in length. Many tilefishes display subdued colour patterns, typically in yellows, browns, or greys, although some Hoplolatilus species, such as the Purple Sand Tilefish, exhibit more vivid colouration. The family name Malacanthidae derives from Greek, meaning "soft thorn," a reference to their flexible dorsal spines.

These fishes inhabit sandy and rubble slopes adjacent to coral reefs, constructing self-dug burrows that provide shelter. They feed on zooplankton and small benthic invertebrates, frequently hovering above their burrow entrances. Different genera occupy distinct depth ranges; Malacanthus species are generally found in shallower waters, while Hoplolatilus species prefer deeper areas, sometimes below 50 meters (164 ft). They are typically shy and retreat into their burrows when approached, making sightings less common in recreational dive depths, especially for the deeper-dwelling species. Individuals can live up to 46 years.