Red Stripe Tilefish

Also known as Redstripe Tilefish, Redback Tilefish

The Red Stripe Tilefish is a beautiful and active species featuring a pale blue-gray body with a distinctive bold red-orange stripe running along the dorsal surface from head to tail. This elegant and personable tilefish combines attractive coloration with the characteristic entertaining burrowing behavior of the Hoplolatilus genus. Peaceful and hardy, this species is an excellent choice for reef aquariums.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Hoplolatilus marcosi
• Common Names: Red Stripe Tilefish, Redstripe Goby, Redback Tilefish
• Adult Size: Up to 5 inches
• Lifespan: 5-8 years with proper care
• Temperament: Peaceful; non-aggressive
• Reef Compatibility: Reef safe; will not harm corals or invertebrates
• Minimum Tank Size: 50 gallons minimum; 75+ gallons preferred
• Experience Level: Intermediate; requires deep sand bed and secure lid

Habitat & Tank Requirements

Tank Environment: Requires deep sand bed (3-4 inches minimum) for natural burrowing behavior. Provide open swimming space with stable rockwork anchored directly to the tank bottom. This species constructs extensive burrow systems. 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 standard reef conditions

Equipment Recommendations:

• Standard filtration system
• Protein skimmer recommended
• Moderate water circulation
• CRITICAL: Tight-fitting, secure lid (known jumper)

Secure lid is essential as all tilefish are accomplished jumpers.

Diet & Feeding

Red Stripe Tilefish are carnivores with hearty appetites.

Recommended foods include:

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

Feeding Frequency: 1-2 times daily

Special Note: Readily accepts all prepared foods once acclimated. May be initially shy but quickly becomes bold during feeding times.

Social Structure & Compatibility

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

Notes & Considerations

• Attractive pale blue-gray body with bold red-orange dorsal stripe.
• Stripe coloration intensifies with proper diet and water quality.
• Creates extensive burrow systems in sand substrate.
• Constantly reworks and maintains a burrow network; fascinating to watch.
• Will move significant amounts of sand during construction.
• Known jumper: Secure lid mandatory to prevent losses.
• Even well-established specimens may jump if startled.
• Initially shy upon introduction but becomes bold and active.
• Hovers near the burrow entrance when comfortable.
• Retreats to burrow instantly when threatened or during lights-out.
• Rockwork must be secured to the tank bottom to prevent collapse.
• May bury or move equipment placed on a sand bed.
• Active mid-water swimmer once acclimated.
• Hardy and relatively disease-resistant.
• May be outcompeted by very aggressive feeders.
• Can be kept with other peaceful tilefish species in larger tanks.
• Becomes personable and recognizes the owner over time.
• Native to Western Pacific reef slopes.
• Less commonly available than Purple or Flashing Tilefish.
• May occasionally spit sand while excavating burrows.
• Peaceful nature makes it excellent for community reef tanks.

Why Choose a Quarantined Red Stripe Tilefish?

Purchasing a quarantined specimen from us means you’re starting with a healthier, well-adjusted fish. All fish are observed, treated as needed, and trained to accept varied prepared foods before sale, ensuring a smooth transition to your aquarium with reduced stress and jump risk.