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ciguatera toxin in local fish
#292957
12/22/2022 06:58 PM
12/22/2022 06:58 PM
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Joined: Dec 2022
Posts: 1 Sun City West, Arizona
MikeBiondo
OP
Member
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OP
Member
Joined: Dec 2022
Posts: 1
Sun City West, Arizona
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Greetings all... Does anyone have any *current* info on the ciguatera toxin in the local fish? The most recent info I can find is over a year old. How serious of a problem is it actually? The news reports (again, well over a year old) make it sound so dire. Is it still recommended not to consume reef fish? With an upcoming BVI visit rapidly approaching, and perhaps engaging in a bit of casual inshore/beach fishing at various stops, do I need to be worried about grilling up a fish? Especially after reading that if a person should happen to get a touch of the illness, alcohol consumption could make symptoms worse. Oh my, say isn't so... <laugh> Thanks folks, this will be my first visit to the BVI, and as a result I have discovered TTOL. Such a great resource! My thanks to all. Not only have so many of my first-timer questions been answered by simply perusing this BVI forum, I have discovered questions (and answers) that I didn't even know I had!  Thanks again for all your contributions... Michael
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Re: ciguatera toxin in local fish
[Re: MikeBiondo]
#293019
12/24/2022 01:47 PM
12/24/2022 01:47 PM
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Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 188 jost van dyke
capttom
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 188
jost van dyke
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In general terms, ciguatera is a nerve toxin, and affects everyone differently and sometimes not at all. You cannot build up a tolerance to it. It can be fatal but rarely is. It is geographic, and the area from South Virgin Gorda west to Culebra is where is is quite prevalent locally. The toxin is carried by microorganisms that float free primarily at night, therefore night-time reef predators are most likely to have it. These include kingfish, snappers especially Cubera, large groupers, Hind, and some jacks and barracuda, but especially Horse Eye Jacks. The prevalence among night predators leads to a local saying - "dont eat fish with an eyeball larger than your own "- and others rely on an 'ant test'. Not everyone responds to the toxin the same way. Two people can eat the same fish, and their reactions can be totally different. Local knowledge is key, but it is usually ok if it is from the north side of Tortola, except horse Eye Jacks. They always have it it seems.
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