Pempheris schwenkii Bleeker, 1855
Silver sweeper
photo by Patzner, R.

Family:  Pempheridae (Sweepers)
Max. size:  15 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 5 - 40 m
Distribution:  Pacific Ocean. Allopatric with sister species Pempheris tominagai which is widely distributed in the Indian Ocean and the Red Sea.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 6-7; Dorsal soft rays (total): 9-10; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 35-42; Vertebrae: 25-25. This species is characterized by the following: 3.5 scale rows above lateral line; usually pinkish caudal fin in fresh specimens; posterior nostril usually compressed (Ref. 95675).
Biology:  Inhabits rocky and coral reefs (Ref. 9710). Found hiding in caves during the day and feeding on zooplankton at night. Solitary or in small groups (Ref. 48636).
IUCN Red List Status: Not Evaluated (N.E.) Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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