Fin's Fish Guide
The Black-edged sweeper (Pempheris molucca) is a brackish-water fish of the family Pempheridae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The blackedged sweeper is a sweeper from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a deep, rearward-tapering, coppery to silvery body with a black margin on the anal fin and large eyes. By day it schools densely in caves, under ledges and around wrecks; at night it spreads out to catch zooplankton. The fish is harmless to humans. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black-edged sweeper?
The Black-edged sweeper has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Black anal fin edge and large eyes; shoals densely in caves during the day
Where does the Black-edged sweeper live?
The Black-edged sweeper lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific
How big does the Black-edged sweeper get?
The Black-edged sweeper grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Black-edged sweeper dangerous to humans?
No, the Black-edged sweeper is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Black-edged sweeper edible?
The Black-edged sweeper is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pempheris
More from the family Pempheridae
Want the complete picture on the Black-edged sweeper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black-edged sweeper is one of 12,519 species in the app.