Dusky Tilefish

Also known as Pastel Tilefish, Dusky Headed Tilefish

The Dusky Tilefish is a subtle yet beautiful species featuring soft pastel coloration with a dusky gray-blue head transitioning into pale yellow-pink body tones and delicate blue fin accents. This peaceful and hardy tilefish exhibits the engaging burrowing behavior characteristic of the genus while displaying elegant, understated beauty. An excellent choice for aquarists seeking a more muted color palette combined with fascinating natural behavior.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Hoplolatilus cuniculus
• Common Names: Dusky Tilefish, Pastel Tilefish, Dusky Headed Goby
• Adult Size: Up to 5 inches
• Lifespan: 5-8 years with proper care
• Temperament: Peaceful; shy but becomes confident
• Reef Compatibility: Reef safe; will not harm corals or invertebrates
• Minimum Tank Size: 50 gallons minimum; 75+ gallons preferred
• Experience Level: Intermediate; requires sand bed and secure lid

Habitat & Tank Requirements

Tank Environment: Requires deep sand bed (3-4 inches minimum) for burrowing behavior and security. Provide open swimming areas with stable rockwork anchored to the tank bottom. Constructs burrow systems for shelter. Appreciates moderate water flow.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025
• pH: 8.1-8.4
• Adaptable to typical reef conditions

Equipment Recommendations:

• Standard filtration system
• Protein skimmer recommended
• Moderate water circulation
• CRITICAL: Secure tight-fitting lid (jumps when startled)

Secure lid essential to prevent jumping losses.

Diet & Feeding

Dusky Tilefish are carnivores with good appetites.

Recommended foods include:

• Staples: High-quality marine pellets, carnivore pellets
• Frozen Foods: Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, krill, cyclops, finely chopped seafood
• Variety: Varied diet enhances subtle coloration

Feeding Frequency: 1-2 times daily

Special Note: Readily accepts prepared foods once comfortable. May be shy initially but becomes enthusiastic feeder.

Social Structure & Compatibility

• Peaceful: Non-aggressive toward all species
• Groups: Can be kept in pairs or groups if introduced simultaneously
• Tankmates: Compatible with most peaceful to semi-aggressive fish
• Reef Safe: Completely safe with corals and invertebrates

Notes & Considerations

• Subtle, elegant pastel coloration: dusky gray-blue head, pale yellow-pink body.
• Understated beauty appeals to aquarists preferring muted palettes.
• Blue accents on fins add delicate color interest.
• Creates burrow systems in sand substrate for shelter.
• Moderately active burrower; moves less sand than some tilefish species.
• Jumps when startled: Secure lid mandatory for this species.
• More shy initially compared to other tilefish; requires patience.
• Becomes confident and active once fully acclimated.
• Hovers near the burrow entrance when comfortable.
• Retreats to burrow when threatened or lights are dimmed.
• Rockwork should be placed on the tank bottom to prevent collapse.
• Hardy once established; relatively disease-resistant.
• May be outcompeted by aggressive feeders; monitor during feeding.
• Peaceful nature makes it excellent for community reef tanks.
• Can coexist with other peaceful tilefish in larger systems.
• Active swimmer in mid-water column once comfortable.
• Native to Indo-Pacific reef slopes.
• Less commonly available than brightly colored tilefish species.
• Becomes personable over time and recognizes feeding schedules.
• May spit sand occasionally during burrow maintenance.
• Excellent choice for aquarists seeking peaceful, interesting behavior without bold colors.

Why Choose a Quarantined Dusky Tilefish?

Purchasing a quarantined specimen from us means you’re starting with a healthier, acclimated fish that has been carefully observed and treated as needed. All fish are conditioned to accept varied prepared foods and adjusted to aquarium life before sale, ensuring a successful, low-stress introduction to your system.