How to recognise it
The Anchor Tilefish (Caulolatilus intermedius) is a distinctive fish. It has a long, slender body with a pointed snout. The coloration is typically a bright blue to greenish-blue on the back, fading to a lighter blue or white on the belly. It features a prominent yellow stripe running along each side. The dorsal fin is long and continuous, with a slight notch towards the back. Its mouth is large and filled with sharp teeth.
This species is often confused with the Golden Tilefish (Lopholatilus chamaeleonticeps). The key detail that separates them is the Anchor Tilefish's blue coloration and the yellow stripe, while the Golden Tilefish is more golden-yellow overall.
Where it lives
The Anchor Tilefish is primarily found in the western Atlantic Ocean. In the United States, its range extends from North Carolina to Florida, including the Gulf of Mexico. It prefers deep waters, typically inhabiting depths between 200 and 800 feet. The Anchor Tilefish is often associated with rocky bottoms and structures such as reefs and ledges.
Seasonally, its habitat can change. During warmer months, it may move shallower, while in colder months, it tends to retreat to deeper waters. This behavior is influenced by water temperature and prey availability.
