Salema porgy, Dreamfish or Goldline
Sarpa Salpa
Characteristics
Scientific name
Size
Depth range
Nutrition
Behave
Frequency in Cyprus
Protection status
Native/Immigrant
Sarpa Salpa
Usually 15 to 35 cm in length, reaching a maximum of around 50 cm.
From 0 to 70 metres, most commonly found between 1 and 20 metres depth.
Herbivorous; feeds primarily on algae and seagrass.
Social species, often forming large schools.
Very common, present throughout the year.
Not threatened (IUCN Red List status: Least Concern)
Native Mediterranean species.
The Salema Porgy (Sarpa salpa) is one of the most common fish species found around Cyprus. Its distinctive golden horizontal stripes make it easy to identify. The species often forms large schools and feeds primarily on algae and seagrass. For divers, it is among the fish most frequently encountered, and can be seen on almost every dive around Cyprus.
Where to Find in Cyprus: Dive Sites & Habitat
The Salema Porgy (Sarpa salpa) is widespread throughout the Mediterranean and is extremely common around Cyprus. It prefers rocky coastlines, seagrass meadows, and shallow reef areas, but can also be found over sandy seabeds. Salema Porgies are most frequently observed in coastal waters at depths between 1 and 20 metres.
As they often form large schools, they are among the most regularly encountered fish at popular dive sites such as Green Bay, Caves & Tunnels, Cyclops Cave, and the shallow areas of MUSAN. Their adaptability and the abundance of available food make them one of the most characteristic and recognisable fish species in the underwater world of Cyprus.
Behavior & Key Features Underwater
Salema Porgies (Sarpa salpa) are diurnal schooling fish and are often encountered in groups ranging from a few dozen to several hundred individuals. They graze algae from rocky surfaces and also feed on seagrass, making them an important component of coastal marine ecosystems.
A little-known characteristic of the species is that consuming large quantities of certain individuals has, in rare cases, been reported to cause hallucinations. This phenomenon is known as ichthyoallyeinotoxism. It is believed to be linked to naturally occurring toxins from specific algae that can occasionally accumulate in the fish. Such cases are uncommon but have been scientifically documented.
For divers, Salema Porgies are particularly rewarding to observe, as they often appear curious and frequently allow close approach, even when gathered in large schools.
Frequently asked Questions (FAQ)
How can you identify a Salema Porgy?
By its silvery body marked with several distinct golden horizontal stripes running along its sides.
Is the Salema Porgy common in Cyprus?
Yes. It is one of the most common fish species in Cyprus' coastal waters and can be observed by divers throughout most of the year.
What does the Salema Porgy feed on?
Primarily algae and seagrass. It is one of the few predominantly herbivorous fish species in the Mediterranean.
Written by
Daniel "KID"