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Saxitoxin in Alaskan commercial crab species
Patricia A Tester1, Bruce Wright2, Richard Wayne Litaker3
1Ocean Tester, LLC, Beaufort, North Carolina, United States of America.
Plos One
|September 3, 2025
Summary
Paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) from saxitoxins (STX) impacts Alaskan fisheries. Regulations and market forces have shifted focus to Dungeness crab products without toxic viscera, ensuring consumer safety.
Area of Science:
- Marine Biology
- Ecotoxicology
- Fisheries Management
Background:
- Paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) is a significant human health risk from consuming Alaskan shellfish contaminated with saxitoxins (STX).
- STX are neurotoxins produced by the marine microalga Alexandrium catenella, accumulating in filter-feeding shellfish and crab viscera.
- Historical PSP incidents linked to Dungeness crab viscera have influenced Alaskan fishery management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the impact of STX and current regulations on the Alaskan crab fishery, particularly Dungeness crab.
- To analyze trends in STX concentrations in Dungeness, King, and Tanner crabs from 1992 to 2023.
- To assess the influence of market forces and human health regulations on fishery practices.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of commercial landings and economic data for Alaskan crab fisheries.
- Compilation and mapping of time-series STX concentration data for Dungeness, King, and Tanner crabs.
- Review of existing regulations concerning shellfish harvesting and sale in Alaska.
Main Results:
- Fishery practices have adapted, with a market shift towards Dungeness crab products excluding viscera due to PSP concerns.
- Time-series data reveal STX prevalence in Dungeness crab from 1992-2023, with regional toxicity variations noted.
- King and Tanner crab also show STX presence, indicating broader implications for Alaskan commercial fisheries.
Conclusions:
- Alaskan crab fisheries have successfully adapted to STX risks through regulatory and market-driven changes, prioritizing consumer safety.
- Ongoing monitoring of STX levels and regional algal toxicity is crucial for sustainable management of Alaskan crab fisheries.
- Understanding STX dynamics in various crab species is essential for comprehensive risk assessment and management strategies.
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