Purple Tilefish

The Purple Tilefish is a stunning and delicate species prized for its ethereal lavender to violet coloration that seems to glow under aquarium lighting. Its elongated, torpedo-shaped body displays a gradient of soft purple hues, often with subtle pink or blue undertones, and the fins carry a translucent quality that adds to its otherworldly appearance. Reaching a modest maximum size of about 5 inches, the Purple Tilefish is a jewel-like addition to the marine aquarium, though its advanced care requirements demand an experienced hand.

In the wild, Purple Tilefish inhabit sandy and rubble-strewn areas adjacent to reef slopes at moderate depths, typically between 25 and 60 meters. They are industrious burrow builders, constructing elaborate tunnels in the substrate using small pieces of rubble, shell fragments, and coral debris. These burrows serve as both shelter and spawning sites. The fish hover in the water column above their burrow during the day to feed on passing zooplankton, darting back into their refuge at the first sign of danger. This hovering behavior, combined with their tendency to bolt when startled, gives them a nervous, alert demeanor.

The Purple Tilefish is considered reef-safe and will not harm corals or invertebrates, making it an excellent candidate for peaceful reef aquariums. However, it requires a deep sand bed of at least 3 inches mixed with rubble pieces for burrow construction, and a very tight-fitting lid is absolutely essential, as this species is one of the most notorious jumpers in the marine hobby. It can leap from even small gaps around plumbing or equipment openings. The Purple Tilefish thrives best when kept in pairs or small groups and may become reclusive and stressed when kept alone. Dim lighting or shaded areas in the tank help replicate its naturally deeper habitat.