Ciguatoxin

Ciguatoxin is a natural toxin produced by certain marine microalgae, mainly of the genus *Gambierdiscus*, which grow on coral reefs. When fish feed on these algae, the toxin accumulates in their tissues, especially in larger, predatory species like groupers and barracudas. If humans consume contaminated fish, they can experience ciguatera fish poisoning, characterized by neurological, gastrointestinal, and cardiovascular symptoms. The toxin affects nerve cells by disturbing how they transmit signals, leading to a range of symptoms. Ciguatoxin is resistant to cooking, so proper fish identification and sourcing are essential for food safety.