The Gold line (Sarpa salpa) is a brackish-water fish of the family Sparidae that grows up to 51 cm.
Description
The salema is a sea bream of the family Sparidae reaching about 50 cm. The oval, laterally compressed body is silvery-grey with ten to twelve conspicuous golden longitudinal stripes and a small dark spot at the pectoral-fin base. The species occurs in the eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean and forms schools over seagrass beds and rocks, usually in shallow water. Unlike most marine fish it is mainly herbivorous, grazing on algae and seagrass. It is a protandrous hermaphrodite, beginning as a male and later becoming female. It is notorious because eating the fish can in rare cases cause hallucinations, which has earned it the nickname 'dreamfish'.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Gold line?
The Gold line has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Gold line live?
The Gold line lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom.
How big does the Gold line get?
The Gold line grows to a maximum of about 51 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Gold line dangerous to humans?
No, the Gold line is harmless to humans.
Is the Gold line edible?
Yes, the Gold line is commonly eaten.
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More from the family Sparidae
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