Dusky Tile Goby EXPERT (Hoplolatilus cuniculus)

Also Known As: Dusky Tilefish, Bluehead Tile Goby

Compatibility and Behavior
The Dusky Tile Goby (Hoplolatilus cuniculus) is the sleeker, more streamlined cousin in the tilefish lineup. Set it next to the taller, deeper-bodied Blueface (Starck's) Tilefish and the difference is clear: this one is slender and torpedo-shaped, with a lighter, more aerodynamic build and a distinctive blue patch riding on top of the head rather than across the face. Soft silvery-to-dusky flanks and an extended dorsal round out a subtle, elegant profile that looks its best in a long, open tank where the fish can do what tilefish do, hovering out in the mid-water column rather than hugging the bottom. Temperament is generally peaceful, and it does best in a calm community with non-aggressive tankmates like small tangs, fairy and flasher wrasses, and Anthias. It's reef safe, ignoring corals and most inverts to pick plankton and small meaty foods from the water. As with all tilefish it's a shy, easily startled fish that bolts for a deep cave or burrow at the first shock, so it wants a settled, low-drama tank and rewards an experienced hand.

Aquarium Requirements
The two make-or-break points are the same as any tilefish, starting with jumping. These are powerful jumpers that launch when alarmed, so a tight-fitting lid or mesh top is absolutely essential and the reason we can only guarantee this species for live arrival. The other is stability, since it demands very steady parameters and mature biological filtration, and swings in salinity, temperature, or nutrients push it into stress quickly. Give it a long, spacious tank with ample horizontal room, open mid-water space, and secure rockwork offering deep, shaded retreats. For individuals in the 3.5 to 5 inch range, plan on at least 80 gallons in a long format for a single specimen, with more room for heavier stocking or larger tankmates, plus strong but non-chaotic flow. Feed regularly on a varied diet of mysis, finely chopped seafood, enriched brine, and quality marine pellets to match its active mid-water lifestyle.

Specifications
Approximate Size: 3.5–5"
Diet: Carnivore; small meaty foods such as mysis, enriched brine, finely chopped seafood, and quality marine pellets
Origin: Indo-Pacific
Care Level: Expert
Reef Safe: Yes
Temperament: Peaceful
Minimum Tank Size: 80 gallons and a long footprint for a single specimen, with more space needed for larger or additional tankmates
Special Considerations: A powerful jumper that must have a secure, tight-fitting lid; needs very stable parameters and a long, spacious tank; shy, so best with gentle tankmates