Yellowtail Hamlet

Yellowtail Hamlet
Name: Yellowtail Hamlet
Scientific Name: Hypoplectrus chlorurus
Family: Hamlets & Sea Basses
Taxonomic: Serranidae
ID Group: Small Oval Fishes
Size: 3 - 4.5 in.
Depth Range: On the reef (10 – 60 ft.)
Sightings: Seen often

The Yellowtail Hamlet has a dark brown or dark blue body with a distinctive bright yellow tail. Its fins are typically dark like the body, except for the pectoral fins, which may have pale yellow tints. A dark spot, sometimes ringed in blue, is visible at the base of the tail fin. Its head has a dark, mask-like pattern.

This Hamlet is a solitary hunter and eats small fish and crustaceans such as shrimp and crabs. It may mimic nearby species in behavior or habitat to gain an advantage, though the mimicry remains unconfirmed. It has both male and female reproductive organs and can take on either role during spawning. Pairs take turns releasing eggs and sperm in a ritual that occurs at dusk.