Shellfish

Definition:
Poisoning from eating shellfish which have eaten a poisonous dinoflagellate (a single-celled algae found mainly in the ocean).

Poisonous Ingredient:
  • A neurotoxin (affects the nervous system) found in the dinoflagellate.


Where Found:
  • mussels
  • clams
  • oysters
  • scallops
From June through October, shellfish are more likely to eat poisonous dinoflagellate.

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.


Review Date: 11/18/2002
Reviewed By: A.D.A.M. editorial.

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