Maya hamlet
📖 Overview
This species is often found among the mangrove roots that grow over shallow seagrass beds. The colors of H. maya and the tunicate, Clavelina puerto-secensis, (growing on mangrove roots) are quite similar and perhaps this hamlet has evolved camouflage coloration against this tunicate. It has also been observed on several occasions that this species attacks small silversides (Jenkinsia lamprotaenia) which form diurnal aggregations among the mangrove roots . The conservation threats to this are related to climate-associated changes as well as coral-reef degradation and pollution due to the close proximity of their habitat to well-populated coastal areas .
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 10; Dorsal soft rays (total): 14 - 15; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 6 - 7; Vertebrae: 23. This species is distinguished from its congeners by the solid deep iridescent blue color and lack of black margins on fins. It is similarly colored as the blue hamlet, H. gemma, from Florida and the Yucatan; it is only distinguished by having dark black upper and lower margins on the caudal fin .: short and / or deep.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Maya hamlet is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; reef-associated. Tropical Endemic to Belize (Pelican Cays).
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Hypoplectrus Maya is an edible species."
- Clear, bright eyes — cloudy eyes indicate age
- Firm flesh that springs back when pressed
- Fresh ocean smell, never strong or ammonia-like
- Bright red or pink gills, not grey or brown
- Shiny, moist skin with scales tightly attached
- Cloudy or sunken eyes
- Strong fishy or ammonia odour
- Soft, mushy flesh that doesn't spring back
- Discoloured or dry flesh
⚡ Nutrition
Detailed nutritional data for Maya hamlet is currently being compiled from USDA FoodData Central.
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Maya hamlet has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🔬 Full Nutritional Profile
Per 100g - Raw, per 100g - Source: USDA FoodData Central templates (lean white fish average)
📊 Population Dynamics
| Year | Region | Index | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| - | - | - |
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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