Purple Tilefish

Also known as Blue Tilefish, Purple Headed Tilefish

The Purple Tilefish is a stunning and active species featuring a vibrant purple-blue head and anterior body that transitions into golden-yellow posteriorly, with bright blue accents along the fins. This energetic and personable fish is a favorite among aquarists for its bold coloration, hardy nature, and entertaining behavior. Tilefish are known for their burrowing habits and will create elaborate tunnel systems in sandy substrates.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Hoplolatilus purpureus
• Common Names: Purple Tilefish, Blue Tilefish, Purple Headed Goby
• Adult Size: Up to 5 inches
• Lifespan: 5-8 years with proper care
• Temperament: Peaceful; may be shy initially but becomes bold
• Reef Compatibility: Reef safe; will not harm corals or most invertebrates
• Minimum Tank Size: 50 gallons minimum; 75+ gallons preferred
• Experience Level: Intermediate; requires specific substrate and secure lid

Habitat & Tank Requirements

Tank Environment: Requires a deep sand bed (3-4 inches minimum) for burrowing behavior. Provide open swimming areas with stable rockwork set on the tank bottom (not on sand) to prevent collapse. This species creates elaborate burrow systems and will move substantial amounts of sand. 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:

• Quality filtration system
• Protein skimmer recommended
• Moderate water circulation
• CRITICAL: Tight-fitting lid with no gaps (exceptional jumper)

Secure lid is absolutely essential as tilefish are notorious jumpers.

Diet & Feeding

Purple Tilefish are carnivores with excellent appetites.

Recommended foods include:

• Staples: High-quality marine pellets, carnivore pellets
• Frozen Foods: Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, krill, finely chopped seafood, cyclops
• Variety: Alternate protein sources for balanced nutrition

Feeding Frequency: 1-2 times daily

Special Note: Very easy to feed once acclimated; readily accepts all prepared foods. May be shy initially but becomes bold and food-aggressive once comfortable.

Social Structure & Compatibility

• Peaceful Nature: Non-aggressive toward all other fish species
• Groups: Can be kept in small groups if introduced simultaneously
• Tankmates: Compatible with most peaceful to semi-aggressive fish
• Reef Safe: Completely safe with corals; may occasionally disturb sand-dwelling invertebrates through burrowing

Notes & Considerations

• Spectacular coloration with purple-blue head transitioning to golden-yellow body.
• Creates elaborate burrow systems in sand substrate; fascinating to observe.
• Will constantly rearrange sand and may create large mounds.
• Requires deep sand bed for natural burrowing behavior and security.
• EXTREME JUMPER: Tight-fitting lid with absolutely no gaps is mandatory.
• Many specimens are lost to jumping; lid security cannot be overstated.
• Initially shy but becomes very bold and personable once established.
• Often hovers above the burrow entrance when comfortable.
• Will retreat to burrow when startled or during lights-out.
• May create multiple burrow entrances connected by tunnels.
• Rockwork must be secured to the tank bottom to prevent collapse from burrowing.
• Can bury powerheads or equipment placed too low in the tank.
• Active swimmer during feeding time; patrols mid-water column.
• Hardy once acclimated; relatively disease-resistant.
• May be outcompeted for food by very aggressive feeders.
• Can be kept in pairs or small groups in larger tanks (75+ gallons).
• Groups should be added simultaneously to reduce territorial disputes.
• Becomes quite personable and will recognize feeding times.
• Native to deeper reef slopes in the Indo-Pacific.
• Coloration intensifies with high-quality diet and stable conditions.
• May occasionally spit sand at glass or decorations.

Why Choose a Quarantined Purple Tilefish?

Purchasing a quarantined specimen from us means you’re starting with a healthier, fully acclimated fish. All fish are observed, treated as needed, and conditioned to accept varied prepared foods before sale. Our specimens are fully adjusted to aquarium life, reducing stress and jump risk during initial introduction to your system.