Fin's Fish Guide
The Silver sweeper (Pempheris adspersa) is a saltwater fish of the family Pempheridae that grows up to 16 cm.
Description
The Silver sweeper is a sweeper (Pempheridae) from coastal waters around New Zealand. The species grows to about 16 cm and has a deep, rearward-tapering, silvery body with large eyes. At night it forms large, rattling schools that keep contact by sound. As a nocturnal fish it shelters by day in dense schools in caves and under overhanging coral; at night it swarms out to eat zooplankton. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Silver sweeper?
The Silver sweeper has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly silver-grey.
Where does the Silver sweeper live?
The Silver sweeper lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: New Zealand
How big does the Silver sweeper get?
The Silver sweeper grows to a maximum of about 16 cm.
Is the Silver sweeper dangerous to humans?
No, the Silver 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.
More photos
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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 Silver sweeper?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Silver sweeper is one of 12,519 species in the app.