Least Concern· population stable· assessed 2014

Salema

Sarpa salpa

Sighting evidence at Karaada Hot Springs Reef, Bodrum

Photo: Guido and Carrara family · CC BY

Dense shoals of salema sweep the geothermal reef in tight silver columns, grazing on the algae that proliferate in the nutrient-rich mineral water. The species is an important herbivore in Mediterranean posidonia ecosystems and its aggregations at Karaada reflect the high productivity of the site. Shoals can number in the hundreds and create dramatic visual curtains when viewed against the volcanic rock backdrop.

Evidence at this site

No confirmed records on file at this site

Salema is listed as a curated species here based on historical reports.

How is this calculated?

Sighting evidence is compiled from iNaturalist observation records within a set proximity radius, filtered for quality-grade observations. “Last confirmed” is the date of the most recent research-grade record. Record count covers a rolling 24-month window. Confidence reflects record count, recency, and consistency of seasonal signal.

Also seen at other sites

HMS Maori→