Common name: Bad lucks

General information

The Butter Hamlet (Hypoplectrus unicolor) is a species of marine fish known for its vibrant yellow coloration and relatively small size. It belongs to the family Serranidae, which includes groupers and sea basses. This species is not as common in the aquarium trade as some other hamlets, but it is prized for its striking appearance and interesting behavior.

Care

Butter Hamlets are moderately easy to care for, making them suitable for intermediate aquarists. They require a well-established aquarium 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.

Reproduction

Like many hamlets, the Butter Hamlet is a simultaneous hermaphrodite, meaning it possesses both male and female reproductive organs and can switch roles during spawning. This unique reproductive strategy allows for a flexible mating system where two individuals can take turns fertilizing each other's eggs during a single spawning event.

Habitat

Hypoplectrus unicolor is found in the Western Atlantic, from Florida and the Bahamas to the northern coast of South America. They typically inhabit coral reefs and are often seen hovering near the bottom, where they blend in with their surroundings thanks to their yellow coloration.