Yellow-Spotted Tilefish (Hoplolatilus chlupatyi)

Fish in the family Malacanthidae. Hard care. Reef Safe.

Yellow-Spotted Tilefish

Quick facts

Scientific nameHoplolatilus chlupatyi
FamilyMalacanthidae
Care levelHard
Reef safetyReef Safe
TemperamentPeaceful
Dietcarnivore
Adult size5 in
Minimum tank size75 gallons
Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.023-1.025
Feeding schedule3-4 times daily

Appearance

Hoplolatilus chlupatyi is a small, elongated tilefish with a distinctive yellow head and bright yellow spots scattered across its blue-gray body. It has a somewhat compressed body shape typical of tilapia in the family Malacanthidae, with a moderately pointed snout and a small mouth adapted for feeding on small benthic organisms.

Diet and feeding

Feed small frozen meaty foods including mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, copepods, and small crustaceans. Multiple small feedings daily are preferred over larger meals.

Difficulty and care for the Yellow-Spotted Tilefish

Yellow-Spotted Tilefish are challenging aquarium specimens due to their deep-dwelling origin, requiring precise water conditions, specialized small foods, and a quiet environment. They are best suited to experienced hobbyists willing to meet their exacting husbandry demands.

Common health issues

Marine Ich, Fin Rot, Swim Bladder Disorder, Hole-in-the-Head Disease, White Spot Syndrome

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific region, including the Philippines and Indonesia, found at depths typically between 100–200 meters on continental slopes and outer reef walls.

Log Yellow-Spotted Tilefish in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Yellow-Spotted Tilefish alongside everything else in your reef.