Fin's Fish Guide
The Japanese sweeper (Pempheris japonica) is a saltwater fish of the family Pempheridae that grows up to 18 cm.
Asia: China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Japan, Ryukyu Is., Korea (South), Philippines and others
Description
The Japanese sweeper is a sweeper (Pempheridae) from reef and coastal water of the northwest Pacific. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed, coppery to silvery body with a large chest, a short dorsal fin and large eyes. As a nocturnal schooling fish it shelters by day in dense groups in caves and under overhanging reef and swarms out at night to eat zooplankton. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Japanese sweeper?
The Japanese sweeper has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly yellow-gold.
Where does the Japanese sweeper live?
The Japanese sweeper lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Japan, Ryukyu Is., Korea (South), Philippines and others
How big does the Japanese sweeper get?
The Japanese sweeper grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the Japanese sweeper dangerous to humans?
No, the Japanese 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.
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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 Japanese sweeper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Japanese sweeper is one of 12,519 species in the app.