Blue Hamlet (Atlantic)

A spectacular fish from the Caribbean, the Blue Hamlet is uniquely hued bright cerulean blue all over. Only its eyes and the edging to its caudal fin are dark. It has a large head and humped back. Males and females are identical. It grows to 5 inches and should be kept in an aquarium of at least 75 gallons.

Because of its large mouth we don't recommend mixing Hamlets with diminutive fish or crustaceans, especially shrimp, as it may eat them. It is safe with all corals and is friendly with all other fish too large to swallow. Hamlets behave like small peaceful groupers, or large hawkfish; however unlike the hawkfish the hamlet has no trouble swimming. It may choose an area in the rockwork to call its own and may chase other fish away from its territory. It also appreciates plenty of space to swim. It is best to keep only one hamlet per aquarium unless over 100 gallons can be devoted to each hamlet and they are added at the same time.

Hamlets are carnivorous and should be fed high quality meaty items such as Mysis, chopped krill, clams, silver sides and other high quality meaty items, preferably more than once a day. They usually learn to accept dry foods and are quite hardy and easy to keep.