tilefish

Tilefish, also known as flatfish, are a group of marine fish belonging to the family Malacanthidae. They are characterized by their elongated, flat bodies and large, round eyes. Tilefish are found in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans, as well as in the Mediterranean Sea. They inhabit a variety of habitats, including rocky reefs, coral reefs, and seagrass beds, typically at depths ranging from 10 to 200 meters.

Tilefish are known for their unique behavior of lying flat on the ocean floor, with their eyes on top, to avoid predators. This behavior is known as "flatfish" or "bottom-dwelling" behavior. They are also known for their ability to change color to blend in with their surroundings, a behavior known as camouflage.

Tilefish are an important food source for many marine animals, including sharks, rays, and other fish. They are also a popular food source for humans, particularly in the Mediterranean region. Tilefish are typically caught using bottom trawls or longlines.

Tilefish are a diverse group of fish, with over 100 species recognized. They range in size from the tiny dwarf tilefish, which is only a few centimeters long, to the giant tilefish, which can grow up to 2 meters in length. Despite their diversity, all tilefish share the same basic body plan and behavior.