弱棘鱼科，又称软棘鱼科，为辐鳍鱼纲鲈形目鲈亚目的其中一个科，分两亚科，马头鱼亚科及软棘鱼亚科。

本科鱼类分布于全球三大洋热带至亚热带海域。

Tilefishes are mostly small perciform marine fish comprising the family Malacanthidae. They are usually found in sandy areas, especially near coral reefs.

Commercial fisheries exist for the largest species, making them important food fish. However, the US Food and Drug Administration warns pregnant or breastfeeding women against eating tilefish and some other fish due to mercury contamination. The smaller, exceptionally colorful species of tilefish are enjoyed in the aquarium.