The salema (Sarpa salpa), also known as the dreamfish, is a small, silver-striped fish found primarily in the eastern Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. Recognizable by its golden horizontal stripes, the salema is a popular target for both commercial and recreational fisheries due to its abundance and palatable flesh. The top salema fishing countries include Spain, Portugal, Italy, Greece, and Turkey, where the species is commonly harvested using small-scale nets and traditional fishing methods. In these Mediterranean and Atlantic coastal nations, salema is sold fresh in local markets and is a staple in regional cuisines. While not a major export commodity, the fish supports local economies and small fishing communities, contributing to the rich maritime heritage of these countries.
Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
---|---|---|
1 | Tunisia | 2,545 |
2 | Spain | 550 |
3 | Libya | 345 |
4 | Portugal | 298 |
5 | Greece | 251 |
6 | Morocco | 149 |
7 | France | 131 |
8 | Türkiye | 122 |
9 | Italy | 76 |
10 | Algeria | 50 |
11 | Croatia | 43 |
12 | Montenegro | 5 |
13 | Cyprus | 1 |
13 | Malta | 1 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.