Sand tilefish
Malacanthus plumieri
(Bloch, 1786)
Description:
Body long, varies in color from yellowish white to light bluish gray. Head with light yellow and bluish markings. Long dorsal and ventral fins. A crescent yellow tail, with a dark area on the upper central part.
Size up to 70 cm.
Habitat:
Primarily a shallow-water benthic species found on sand and rubble bottoms, but recorded down to 153 m. Builds mounds of rubble and shell fragments near reefs and grass beds. Hover near the entrance, undulating the long dorsal and anal fins. Enters its mound head first when frightened. Feeds mainly on benthic invertebrates.
Distribution:
Occasional Florida and Bahamas, common Caribbean.