The Blue Blanquillo or Malacanthus latovittatus is just one of the over 40 different species of Tilefish. This particular species gets its name from its bluish coloration. Blue Blanquillo fish are often found in the Indo-Pacific area from the Red Sea to Line Islands, north to southern Japan and south to New Caledonia and Cook Island. They are often seen in areas around reefs near the bottom.
These fish are not very large only growing to about 14 in (35 cm) in maximum length. Blue Blanquillo fish are long and slender with elongated dorsal and anal fins. Be careful if you are ever handling these fish as they have spines in their anal fins that can poke you.When the Blue Blanquillo reproduces their fry have large spines and serrations on their head and large scales in comparison to the size of their bodies. As they grow they tend to stay in water with a temperature range of 72 - 83°F (22 - 28°C). Their diet consists of small invertebrates and zooplankton. Blue Blanquillos are the only known Tilefish that can survive in brackish waters and in saltwater. These fish will often make burrows in the substrate that they hide in when alarmed. They will also seek shelter in caves of even a simple pile of rocks. If you have any additional information about this species of Tilefish let us know in the comments...
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