Oreni Tilefish — Hoplolatilus orenii

Introduction to Saltwater Tilefish

Tilefish are vibrant, fast-swimming marine fish known for their burrowing behavior, peaceful temperament, and striking colors. Found in deep reef slopes and sandy areas, tilefish prefer secure hiding spots within rockwork and sand beds, where they retreat when threatened. Due to their skittish nature and need for a well-secured tank, tilefish are best suited for intermediate to advanced aquarists who can provide a low-stress environment with a tight-fitting lid to prevent jumping.

Care Requirements

Care Level: Moderate to Difficult – Sensitive to stress and requires a covered aquarium Minimum Tank Size: 50 – 125+ gallons Smaller species (e.g., Purple Tilefish) – 50+ gallons Larger species (e.g., Blue Jaw Tilefish) – 100+ gallons Aquarium Setup: Requires deep sand beds, rockwork for hiding, and a tight-fitting lid Tilefish construct burrows in the substrate and prefer a peaceful, low-stress environment with plenty of secure hiding spots.

Diet & Nutrition

Tilefish are carnivorous and require a steady diet of small, meaty foods to stay healthy. Diet: Carnivorous – Prefers planktonic and small meaty foods

Recommended Foods:

Mysis shrimp and brine shrimp Enriched plankton and copepods High-quality frozen and pellet foods Feeding small portions multiple times per day ensures consistent energy levels and vibrant coloration.

Lifespan & Growth Rate

Lifespan: 5-10+ years Growth Rate: Moderate – Can reach 4-8 inches, depending on the species With proper care and a stress-free environment, tilefish can live for several years in captivity.

Temperament & Compatibility

Temperament: Peaceful – Can be shy when first introduced Reef Safe? Yes – Does not harm corals or invertebrates Avoid housing them with aggressive or fast-moving fish, as tilefish are easily startled and may become stressed.

Common Challenges & Considerations

Jumping Risk: Tilefish are notorious jumpers—a secure, tight-fitting lid is mandatory. Shy and Easily Stressed: Requires calm tankmates and plenty of hiding spaces. Requires Frequent Feeding: Should be fed multiple times daily to stay active and healthy. Water Conditions Temperature: 74-80°F dKH (Alkalinity): 8-12 pH: 8.1-8.4 Specific Gravity: 1.020-1.025 Tilefish prefer stable, well-oxygenated reef conditions with moderate water flow.

Color Varieties & Popular Species

Tilefish are known for their brilliant color patterns and graceful swimming behavior. Some of the most popular species include: Purple Tilefish (Hoplolatilus purpureus) – Deep purple body, often found in pairs or small groups Blue Jaw Tilefish (Hoplolatilus starcki) – Brilliant blue head with a yellow body, one of the hardiest tilefish Flashing Tilefish (Hoplolatilus chlupatyi) – Displays color-changing flashes, a unique species for large tanks Yellow Tilefish (Hoplolatilus luteus) – Soft yellow coloration, a rare but striking species