Bigscale Bullseye

This deep-bodied and dark-coloured fish is usually found under ledges and overhangs, like others in the family Pempheridae. Unlike its schooling relatives however, this species is usually found alone or in pairs. Its large pointed dorsal and anal fins can help differentiate it from the Scalyfin (Parma victoriae), to which it bears a superficial resemblance. However, it is most alike to the Rough Bullseye (Pempheris klunzingeri). Adults can be differentiated by the lack of a darker shoulder bar, the extremely bright margin around its pupil, and its large scales. Although, in younger adults the scales can be obscured by a striped pattern that gives it a similar appearance to Pempheris ornata, albeit much less brightly orange. Juveniles have distinctive fins, which are black-tipped, with prominent bright yellow shading.