Common name: Barred hamlet

General information

The Barred Hamlet (Hypoplectrus puella) is a species of fish belonging to the family Serranidae, commonly found in the tropical western Atlantic Ocean. This small, colorful fish is known for its distinctive barred pattern and is a popular choice among reef aquarium hobbyists for its beauty and relatively peaceful demeanor.

Barred Hamlets are part of a complex group of fish known as the Hamlet complex, where species exhibit a high degree of color morphs and hybridization, making identification challenging. They are also interesting for their unique breeding behaviors and are a subject of study in the field of marine biology.

Care

Barred Hamlets are moderately easy to care for in a home aquarium. They require a well-established tank with plenty of live rock for hiding and hunting. These fish are carnivorous and thrive on a diet of small meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood.

While generally peaceful, they can be territorial towards other hamlets and similarly sized fish, especially in smaller tanks. It's important to provide ample space and hiding spots to minimize aggression.

Reproduction

Hypoplectrus puella exhibits a unique reproductive strategy known as simultaneous hermaphroditism, where individuals possess both male and female reproductive organs and can switch roles during mating. This allows for a flexible mating system where any two individuals can pair and spawn, increasing reproductive success.

In the aquarium, breeding Barred Hamlets can be a rewarding experience. They typically spawn on a flat surface, and the eggs are adhesive, sticking to the substrate. The parents may guard the eggs until they hatch, after which the larvae are planktonic and can be raised with appropriate live foods.

Habitat

Barred Hamlets are found in a variety of reef habitats, from shallow seagrass beds to deeper coral reefs. They are adept at camouflage and often blend into their surroundings to ambush prey or avoid predators.

Their natural range extends from Florida and the Bahamas to the northern coast of South America, including the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico.