Fin's Fish Guide
The Bad lucks (Hypoplectrus puella) is a saltwater fish of the family Serranidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The barred hamlet is a small sea bass (Serranidae) from the western Atlantic and the Caribbean. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a deep, pale body with several dark crossbars and a conspicuous dark saddle blotch on the back. It is a solitary reef dweller that always stays near cover on rocky and coral reefs. As an ambush hunter it catches small crustaceans and small fishes. Notably, hamlets are simultaneous hermaphrodites that alternate the male and female roles during spawning. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bad lucks?
The Bad lucks has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly white and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Simultaneous hermaphrodite that swaps roles when spawning; dark vertical bars and a saddle blotch. Note: in tropical areas this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large specimens of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with caution or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Bad lucks live?
The Bad lucks lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic and Caribbean; rocky and coral reefs.
How big does the Bad lucks get?
The Bad lucks grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Bad lucks dangerous to humans?
The Bad lucks is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bad lucks edible?
The Bad lucks is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hypoplectrus
More from the family Serranidae
Want the complete picture on the Bad lucks?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bad lucks is one of 12,519 species in the app.