Flashing Tilefish

Well, most species cannot flash like that.

Sometimes, when people on boards say that their fish is flashing, that's also a term used when a fish has ich and is scratching on rocks or sand.

EDIT: This link will show how wrasses flash. http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2006-08/ht/index.php

 

Yes, but they are not even remotely close to that dramatic. On the other hand, they are easier to care for and don't cost $200. LOL

 

What causes the fish to flash?

Nevermind! Just read it in the article you posted. But since it's related to mating, if you have just one flashing fish in your tank, will it flash? Or does it just stay its normal colors?

 

Usually, with flasher wrasses, you want another wrasse that they can display at. Tilefish flash when a bigger fish of any species comes close to it. They'll even flash at their reflection in the glass.

 

Any idea where I could get one of these?

Found this - http://www.thepetstop.com/showprofile.cgi?index=5517&cat=livestock.fish.tilefish&loc=&listpage=1

Anyone buy from there before? Heard about the site?

 

I've never heard of that site but that's an incredible price for that fish although since they are sensitive shippers I hope they know how to handle the fish to best ensure its survival.

Here is the other place I found that had one in stock. LiveAquaria doesn't appear to stock them although I suppose it may come through DiversDen.
Flashing Tilefish, Chameleon Tilefish - Hoplolatilus chlupatyi

 

Tilefish are tough fish not just because they are jumpers and poor shippers but because they can be difficult to get to eat prepared food along with bullying a fish of similar shape/size.

Most places I've seen say they are peaceful and I agree somewhat depending on what else is in the tank. My poor jawfish got beat up pretty bad by a yellow tilefish because it was similar size/shape and it would chase my flame hawk and clown from time to time too. Wound up selling the tilefish back to the LFS

 

wow. thats amazing.. is it reef safe?

 

Most people say they are reef safe but I have seen tilefish nibble on polyps before.

 

They are neat, but pricey, and are tough to get to eat, and don't ship well.

I saw one at a LFS a couple years back. Pretty cool fish, but I don't think I could justify that kind of $$ on fish with no guarantee.

I have seen a lot of flasher wrasses flash, and I have never seen one flash any bit close to how spectacularly that tile fish flashed. Which is unfortunate, since flasher wrasses are far less $$, and easier to keep. Flasher wrasses do have better coloration than the tilefish though.