Pharidae

The Pharidae are a family of marine ray-finned fishes belonging to the order Perciformes. Commonly known as sweepers, these fishes are found in tropical and subtropical waters of the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans. Pharidae includes 11 species in 4 genera: Parapriacanthus, Pharopteryx, Pristicon, and Priacanthus.

Characteristics

Sweepers are distinguished by their compressed, deep bodies and large eyes. Their bodies are typically red or orange, with some species exhibiting silver or yellow markings. Most species have a distinctive pointed snout. They have a single dorsal fin, a single anal fin, and a forked tail. Unlike most other perciforms, they lack scales on their head and body, except for a small area at the base of the caudal fin.

Environment

Pharidae fishes are primarily nocturnal and are often found in coral reefs, rocky reefs, and seagrass beds. They are primarily benthic feeders, meaning they feed on the bottom of the ocean floor. Their diet consists of crustaceans, polychaetes, and other small invertebrates.

References

For further information on Pharidae, refer to these reliable sources: