Common name: Silver sweeper

General information

Pempheris schwenkii, commonly known as the Swallowtail Glassfish or Sweeper, is a small, nocturnal fish species that is part of the Pempheridae family. This species is known for its unique, laterally compressed body and large, reflective eyes which are adaptations to its nocturnal lifestyle. The body is transparent to silvery with a distinctive forked tail, resembling a swallow's tail, which gives it its common name.

Sweepers are schooling fish that often congregate in large groups around reef overhangs and caves during the day, dispersing at night to feed. Their diet primarily consists of zooplankton and small invertebrates.

Care

In the aquarium, Pempheris schwenkii can be a fascinating addition due to their schooling behavior and unique appearance. They require a well-established tank with plenty of hiding places and a peaceful environment. It's important to maintain a dimly lit aquarium or provide shaded areas to mimic their natural habitat and reduce stress.

Feeding these fish can be a rewarding experience as they are active hunters. A varied diet of small, meaty foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and finely chopped seafood is recommended to keep them healthy and active.

Reproduction

There is limited information on the breeding habits of Pempheris schwenkii in home aquariums. In the wild, they are known to release their eggs into the water column, where they become part of the planktonic drift. The larvae are pelagic until they mature and join adult schools.

Habitat

Pempheris schwenkii is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to Samoa, north to the Ryukyu Islands, and south to New Caledonia. They inhabit coral reefs and rocky outcrops, typically at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 40 meters deep.