Flagtail Tilefish

The Flagtail Tilefish (Malacanthus brevirostris) is a peaceful species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its elongated body, elegant swimming style, and striking black-and-white “flag” pattern on its tail. Males typically grow slightly larger and may show more confident display behavior in the open water column, while females/juveniles remain smaller and less boldly patterned. They reach about 12 inches in length and should be housed in aquariums of at least 125 gallons.

Provide a deep sandbed for burrowing, sturdy live rock structures for shelter, and plenty of open swimming space, along with stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temp ~72–79°F, pH ~8.1–8.4). A secure, tight-fitting lid is absolutely necessary, as tilefish are powerful jumpers when startled. Diet should consist of mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, chopped seafood, copepods, and high-quality marine pellets or frozen preparations. With proper care, this species makes a standout addition to a large reef or fish-only aquarium, admired for both its beauty and constant, graceful presence in the water column.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.