The Bronze Sweeper, Blacktip Bullseye (Pempheris analis) is a small, but striking fish species belonging to the family Pempheridae. It is readily recognized by its distinctive bronze coloration, black tipped dorsal fin, and large, prominent eyes. This species, which is found in a variety of marine habitats, is a fascinating subject for marine biologists and aquarists alike.
Description & Characteristics
Pempheris analis is a relatively small fish with a maximum recorded size of 20.0 cm. The body is laterally compressed and deep, with a prominent, pointed snout. Its distinctive bronze coloration is further enhanced by a black band that runs along the base of the dorsal fin, which also features a black tip. The eyes of the Bronze Sweeper, Blacktip Bullseye are large and positioned high on the head, likely an adaptation for its nocturnal habits.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Bronze Sweeper, Blacktip Bullseye (Pempheris analis) is commonly found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world. It prefers to inhabit coral reefs, rocky shores, and seagrass beds, typically residing in depths ranging from 5.0 to 40.0 meters. This depth preference places the species within the epipelagic and mesopelagic zones, characterized by sunlight penetration and varied marine life.
Taxonomy
The species Pempheris analis belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Acropomatiformes, and Family: Pempheridae. This taxonomic classification places the Bronze Sweeper, Blacktip Bullseye within a group of fish known for their distinctive features, such as their deep bodies, large eyes, and nocturnal habits.
Feeding
Pempheris analis is a carnivorous fish that feeds primarily on a diet of zooplankton, including copepods, amphipods, mysids, and small invertebrates like Daphnia salina. This species is an important part of the food web, acting as a predator of smaller organisms while also serving as prey for larger fish. Their nocturnal feeding habits allow them to exploit a different range of prey compared to diurnal fish species.
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