Dr. Salta, an elderly prisoner incarcerated at an Icelandic labor camp unsustainably mining Earth's mantle energy and worsening planetary instability, possesses a professorial background. His scientific knowledge and mentorship of fellow inmates reflect this. His defining physical feature is an exceptionally large, bulbous nose, a recurring Tezuka design symbolizing karmic continuity. Salta holds extensive, secretive research on the mythical Phoenix (Species 2772), including undisclosed information about its vulnerabilities.

Driven by the desire to locate the Phoenix and harness its power to heal Earth's ecological crisis, Salta orchestrates an escape during catastrophic seismic events. He manipulates Godo into collaboration by promising the Phoenix as Earth's salvation. After their escape using the stolen "Space Shark" spacecraft, Salta joins the mission to track the Phoenix. He acts as a guide, leading the crew to the planet Tears to recruit his friend Ban (Higeoyaji) and secure supplies.

During the confrontation with the Phoenix, which morphs into monstrous forms, Salta suffers critical injuries. He dies attempting to convey the secret of the Phoenix's weakness, but his final words are lost, leaving the crew without this crucial knowledge.