Blue Hamlet

The Blue Hamlet is one of the most strikingly colored and sought-after members of the Hypoplectrus hamlet complex, displaying a vibrant electric blue coloration across its entire body that makes it a true standout among Caribbean reef fish. The intensity of the blue can vary from a deep sapphire to a brilliant azure depending on lighting conditions and the individual's mood, with some specimens showing subtle darker barring that is typical of the hamlet group. At about 5 inches maximum, it shares the compact, bass-like body shape common to all hamlets.

In the wild, Hypoplectrus gemma is found in the Caribbean and Western Atlantic, with populations recorded around Florida, the Bahamas, Jamaica, and other Caribbean islands. It is considered one of the rarer hamlet species, making wild sightings a noteworthy event for divers. Like other hamlets, it inhabits coral reefs at moderate depths, typically between 3 and 25 meters, where it leads a solitary, territorial existence among coral heads and reef structures. It feeds on small crustaceans, worms, and tiny fish, using quick dashes from cover to capture prey.

In the aquarium, the Blue Hamlet is a prized species for Caribbean enthusiasts and collectors drawn to its exceptional coloration. It is moderately challenging to maintain, primarily due to its initial shyness and the difficulty some specimens have transitioning to prepared foods. Once settled, however, it becomes a hardy and long-lived aquarium resident. A 30-gallon tank with ample live rock provides adequate space for a single specimen. Its rarity in the trade means it commands premium prices when available, and wild collection pressures have raised conservation concerns.