Author: (Bloch, 1786)
FBname: Sand tilefish
Comments: Primarily a shallow-water benthic species found on sand and rubble bottoms (Ref. 5246).  Builds mounds of rubble and shell fragments near reefs and grass beds; enters its mound head first when frightened (Ref. 5246).  Feeds mainly on stomatopods, fishes, polychaete worms, chitons, sea urchins, sea stars, amphipods and shrimps (Ref. 3644).  Tends to bite when handled (Ref. 5246).  Marketed fresh (Ref. 5246).  Between 1995 and 2000, at least 7 specimens have been traded as aquarium fish at Ceará, Brazil (Ref. 49392).