Causes and effects

Ciguatera poisoning occurs when a toxic marine organism, Gambierdiscus toxicus, is absorbed. The organism is present in off-shore plankton eaten by reef fish that are in turn consumed by humans. The toxin causes no appa rent harm to the fish but may cause death to humans.

In addition to the common symp toms of food poisoning vomiting, cramps and diarrohea the victim may also experience tingling of the mouth, pins and needles and a curious reversal of hot and cold sensations.

The poison is usually severely debili

tating and can be fatal.

Outbreaks are most commonly link ed to disturbances to the ecology of coral reefs by natural events storms, earthquakes, tidal waves and heavy rain or to human activities.