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Tilefish

Caulolatilus microps
Managed by: NOAA Fisheries, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Regions
New England/Mid-AtlanticSoutheast
Protected status
None
Also known as
Blueline tilefishGray tilefish

Species Profile

Florida saltwater profile data (FWC). Availability and detail varies by species.

FWC
Appearance
  • Golden stripe underlined with broader blue band, from snout to eye
  • Dark brownish/gray to olive body with white belly
  • No enlarged flap on top of head
  • Long continuous soft dorsal and anal fins
  • Head with black predorsal ridge
  • Prominent stout preopercle spine
Habitat
Offshore in deep water (normally 100 - 650 feet) around ledges and crevices. Prefer irregular bottom types with mud and shell hash. Common in water temperatures ranging from 15 – 23°C.
Behavior
Live up to 40 years. Feed on benthic invertebrates such as shrimp and crabs, and small fish. Spawning occurs from May to October, and females may lay more than 4 to 13.5 million free-floating eggs.
Additional information
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Seafood Profile

Powered by NOAA FishWatch data. Availability and detail varies by species.

NOAA FishWatch
Population
In the South Atlantic, not overfished. In the Mid-Atlantic and Gulf of America* (formerly Gulf of Mexico), the stocks have not been assessed, the population levels are unknown, and management measures are in place.
Fishing rate
In the Gulf of America, not subject to overfishing. In the South Atlantic, reduced to end overfishing. In the Mid-Atlantic, overfishing status is unknown, but management measures are in place.
Bycatch
Regulations are in place to minimize bycatch.
Taste
Tilefish has a mild sweet flavor, similar to lobster or crab. It is similar in taste to golden tilefish. Almost all tilefish is sold fresh.
Texture
Firm but tender.
Color
White.
Health benefits
Tilefish is low in sodium. It is a good source of niacin, phosphorus, protein, vitamin B12, and selenium.
Sources
Image credit: NOAA Fisheries/Jack Hornady