Vol. 12, Issue 6 (2023)

Author(s):
Domendra Dhruve, Ajeet Soni, Siddharth Kumar Jatav and Satyendra Katara

Abstract:
Marine environments host a diverse array of microorganisms that produce a wide range of naturally occurring toxins, many of which pose a significant threat to human health. Among these toxins, those associated with shellfish and finfish consumption have garnered particular attention due to their potential to cause severe poisoning incidents. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the naturally occurring marine toxins associated with shellfish and finfish, including their sources, modes of transmission, and impacts on human health. Shellfish toxins primarily originate from harmful algal blooms (HABs), commonly known as "red tides," which are caused by certain species of phytoplankton. These toxins can accumulate in filter-feeding shellfish such as mussels, clams, and oysters, rendering them toxic to humans upon consumption. The most well-known shellfish toxins include paralytic shellfish toxins (PSTs), amnesic shellfish toxins (ASTs), and diarrhetic shellfish toxins (DSTs). Each class of toxin has distinct chemical properties and targets different physiological systems, leading to varying symptoms in affected individuals. Finfish toxins, on the other hand, are primarily produced by certain species of dinoflagellates and cyanobacteria. These toxins can accumulate in predatory fish species and cause illness in humans upon ingestion. Ciguatera fish poisoning (CFP), saxitoxin (STX), and tetrodotoxin (TTX) are among the most notable finfish toxins. They exhibit neurotoxic effects, leading to symptoms ranging from gastrointestinal distress to neurological impairment. Understanding the characteristics and mechanisms of shellfish and finfish toxins are essential for the development of effective monitoring and surveillance programs.