Non-traditional vectors for paralytic shellfish poisoning

Area of Science:

• Marine Biology
• Ecotoxicology
• Food Safety

Background:

• Paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) is primarily caused by saxitoxins (STXs) concentrated by filter-feeding shellfish from marine dinoflagellates.
• STXs are also produced by freshwater cyanobacteria and associated with macroalgae, expanding their environmental presence.
• These toxins bioaccumulate in aquatic food webs and can affect non-filter-feeding organisms and humans.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review traditional and non-traditional vectors of STXs.
• To highlight the challenges in monitoring and managing STX contamination in non-traditional vectors.
• To discuss human health effects and management strategies related to STX exposure.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of STX sources, vectors, and human impacts.
• Analysis of STX transfer and bioaccumulation in aquatic food webs.
• Case study examination of PSP management and incidents.

Main Results:

• STXs are found in diverse marine and freshwater organisms beyond filter-feeding shellfish.
• Non-traditional vectors like gastropods, crustaceans, and fish can accumulate STXs through trophic transfer.
• Monitoring and management are complicated by the disconnect between STX sources and non-traditional vectors.

Conclusions:

• STX contamination poses a risk through a wider range of seafood than previously recognized.
• Effective management requires understanding STX pathways in complex food webs.
• Preventing human intoxication necessitates addressing STX accumulation in non-traditional PSP vectors.