Quakerfish

Family: Tilefishes (Malacanthidae)

Size: Up to 30 cm (12 in) | Common: 20 cm

Depth: 5 – 50m (15 – 165ft)

Distribution: Indo-Pacific and Eastern Pacific (Baja to Colombia & Galapagos).

Identification:
A ghost-like fish often seen hovering over the sand.

• Body Shape: Very elongated and cylindrical, almost like a cigar. The body is pale grey to white with very faint vertical bars on the side.
• The Tail: The caudal fin has two distinct horizontal black stripes against a white background. This "flag-like" pattern is the easiest way to spot them from a distance.
• The Eye: As seen in your photo, they often have a bright yellow ring or patch on the iris.

Behavior:
The engineer of the sand flats.

• The Burrow: They live in self-made burrows in the sand or rubble. They are famous for piling up pieces of dead coral and shell to reinforce the entrance of their home.
• Escape Artist: They usually hover a meter or two above their burrow. If you approach too fast, they will dive head-first into the sand and disappear instantly.
• Social: They are often found in pairs, working together to maintain their rubble mound.