Butter Hamlet (Hypoplectrus unicolor)

Fish in the family Serranidae. Moderate care. Reef Safe with Caution.

Butter Hamlet

Quick facts

Scientific nameHypoplectrus unicolor
FamilySerranidae
Also known asButter Hamlet, Yellow Hamlet
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyReef Safe with Caution
TemperamentSemi Aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Adult size5.5 in
Minimum tank size55 gallons
Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.02-1.025
Feeding schedule1-2 times daily

Appearance

The Butter Hamlet is a small, stocky serranid with a golden-yellow to pale yellow body. It has a slightly compressed body shape typical of hamlets, with a rounded head and small mouth.

Diet and feeding

Feed a variety of meaty foods including small crustaceans (mysis shrimp, amphipods), high-quality frozen preparations, and occasionally small fish. Feed 1-2 times daily in appropriate portion sizes.

Difficulty and care for the Butter Hamlet

Moderate - Very common Caribbean reef fish. Safe with corals but may eat shrimp. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.

Common health issues

Marine ich, Fin rot, Swim bladder disorder, Bacterial infections, Parasitic infestations

Origin and habitat

Western Atlantic, from Florida and the Bahamas south through the Caribbean to northern South America.

Keeper notes

Very common Caribbean reef fish. Safe with corals but may eat shrimp. Peaceful but predatory.

Log Butter Hamlet in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Butter Hamlet alongside everything else in your reef.