Blue Hamlet

Hypoplectrus gemma

Identification	Deep, solid sapphire-blue body with subtle iridescent highlights on the scale edges. No bands, spots, or contrasting markings. The uniform blue coloration distinguishes it from all other hamlet species. A small, stocky basslet with a rounded tail.
Maximum Length	5 inches (13 cm)
Origin	Caribbean Sea — Florida Keys south through the Bahamas, Belize, and Venezuela
Minimum Tank Size	55 gallons
Reef Compatibility	With caution — will eat ornamental shrimp and very small fish

Behavior

A curious, bold, and generally hardy fish. Relatively peaceful toward fish too large to be considered prey, but may be territorial with conspecifics or other hamlet species in smaller tanks. Hamlets are simultaneous hermaphrodites and will occasionally form spawning pairs in the aquarium, making them fascinating to observe. Adapts well to captivity and is disease-resistant by reef fish standards. Provide plenty of live rock with caves and overhangs.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivore. Feed frozen mysis shrimp, krill, enriched frozen brine shrimp, chopped silversides, and meaty marine preparations. Accepts high-quality pellets once acclimated. Feed once or twice daily.

Cautions

Will eat ornamental shrimp (including cleaner shrimp), small gobies, firefish, and other very small fish. Plan tankmates carefully — house with fish of similar or larger size.