Ciguatoxin in Fish

Introduction

When we think of eating fish, we usually imagine a sumptuously nutritious meal. But there is a hidden danger in the ocean that can make this delicious food a health risk – ciguatoxin. 

What is Ciguatoxin and why is it found in fish?

Ciguatoxins are harmful substances produced by two specific types of marine algae, known as Gambierdiscus and Fukuyoa. These toxins can enter the food chain when herbivorous marine animals consume the algae containing ciguatoxins. Larger predatory fish that eat these marine animals can then accumulate the toxins in their bodies. Certain types of coral reef fish— like Leopard Coral grouper, Lyretail, and Tiger Grouper— are more likely to be contaminated with it because the algae that contain ciguatoxin live in a similar marine environment. 

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