Barred Hamlet

The Barred Hamlet (Hypoplectrus puella), native to the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico, typically resides in rocky reefs. These fish are nocturnal, using their large eyes to hunt in the dim evening light, while during the day, they retreat to deep rocky caves and crevices to rest and search for small crustaceans and invertebrates.

They adjust well to life in an aquarium and can acclimate to bright aquarium lighting over time. Providing them with ample caves and large crevices is crucial for their comfort, especially as a retreat from the light. A unique aspect of Hamlets is their possession of both male and female reproductive organs, making them interesting for breeding in larger aquariums and commercial facilities. The Barred Hamlet’s striking white and yellow base color, accented with brown bars and blue highlights, along with its medium size and semi-aggressive nature, make it a desirable species for aquariums.

For optimal care, Barred Hamlets should be housed in at least a 55-gallon tank to provide sufficient swimming space and accommodate their biological impact. In the wild, they establish a permanent territory on the reef. In an aquarium, they need both open swimming areas and live rock formations with plenty of caves and crevices.

They will claim a part of the aquarium as their territory, defending it against similar-sized fish and other Hamlets. Typically, one Barred Hamlet per tank is advisable, except in very large aquariums (200 gallons or more), where multiple specimens can be accommodated with enough territory.

Well-fed Barred Hamlets are usually not overly aggressive towards small fish or invertebrates, though they might prey on very small fish and crustaceans. Among Hamlet species, they are one of the more peaceful, making them suitable for traditional community aquarium setups.