In situ photographs documenting phenotypic variation within and between hamlet species across their distribution range

This dataset comprises 571 live photographs from 15 hamlet species (Hypoplectrus spp.) taken across their entire distribution range in 7 locations: US Virgin Islands, Panama, Belize, the Florida Keys (USA), Tobago, Mexico and Puerto Rico. Photographs were taken in situ underwater. This dataset was used to analyse within and between species phenotypic variation in color pattern, a polygenic trait used as mating cue for assortative mating in hamlets.