Common name: Glassy sweeper

General information

The Midnight Snapper, scientifically known as Pempheris schomburgkii, is a striking fish species known for its deep blue to black coloration and active swimming behavior. This species is a member of the family Pempheridae, commonly referred to as sweepers due to their sweeping movements while foraging for food. Midnight Snappers are nocturnal predators, feeding primarily on zooplankton.

Care

Midnight Snappers are moderately easy to care for in a home aquarium setting. They require a tank with plenty of open swimming space as well as overhangs and caves for shelter during the day. These fish are schooling species and should be kept in groups of five or more to promote natural behavior and reduce stress. They are not aggressive towards other fish but may outcompete slower feeders due to their swift nature.

Reproduction

In the wild, Midnight Snappers form large aggregations to spawn. The details of their reproductive behavior in home aquariums are not well-documented, but they are known to release eggs and sperm into the water column, where fertilization occurs externally. Raising the larvae can be challenging due to their small size and specific feeding requirements.

Habitat

Midnight Snappers are found in the Western Atlantic, from Florida and the Bahamas to Brazil, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. They inhabit reef environments, typically in areas with moderate to strong currents, and can be found at depths ranging from shallow waters to over 100 meters.