Meet the Salema Porgy, a seemingly innocent fish with a not-so-innocent secret. This little swimmer, also known as Sarpa salpa, is famous for its ability to make you hallucinate. Yes, you read that right—not only certain mushrooms—fish can turn your dinner into a psychedelic trip too.
The Salema Porgy looks like your average fish, with its golden stripes and shiny scales. But don’t let its appearance fool you. This fish has a history of causing some wild experiences. The culprit? Certain toxins from the phytoplankton it eats, which can mess with your mind if you consume the fish.
Take, for example, the case of two men in the Mediterranean who decided to have a Salema Porgy feast. Instead of a quiet night in, they ended up with vivid hallucinations that lasted for days. One of them reported seeing giant, terrifying insects, while the other had visions of screaming animals.
Historically, the Romans and Polynesians knew about the Salema Porgy’s trippy effects and used it in their ceremonies. Imagine that—a fish as the star of the ancient world’s version of a rave.
So, if you ever find yourself staring at a Salema Porgy on a menu, remember: it might just turn your meal into an unforgettable (and possibly unsettling) experience. Eat at your own risk! Or maybe just don’t eat it?
You can find more detailed information on this fascinating aquatic creature on HERE, HERE, and HERE.
