FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - October 28, 2010
Contacts:
Kristine Barsky, DFG Marine Region (805) 985-3114
Carrie Wilson, DFG Communications (831) 649-7191
Domoic Acid Advisory Issued for Consumers of Lobsters and Rock Crabs in
Southern California
The California Department of Fish and Game (DFG) is warning all
consumers of California spiny lobster to eat only the tail meat until
further notice. Elevated levels of domoic acid toxin have been found in
the viscera (internal organs) of lobster sampled from waters adjacent to
the northern Channel Islands. Elevated levels of the toxin have also
been detected in recent samples of rock crab, and so this warning also
extends to this species. The meat of the lobster and crab is not
affected by the toxin, but all internal organs, including the roe,
should be discarded.
Symptoms of domoic acid poisoning can occur within 30 minutes to 24
hours after eating toxic seafood. In mild cases, symptoms may include
nausea or diarrhea, cramps, headache and dizziness. These symptoms
typically disappear within several days, but in severe cases, the victim
may experience life-threatening symptoms, or even death.
"DFG biologists are working with the Department of Public Health to
increase the level of sampling for domoic acid along the coast," said
DFG Senior Invertebrate Specialist Kristine Barsky. "To date, there have
been no known cases of poisoning. With this warning we want to ensure
consumer safety, but not discourage people from enjoying these tasty
crustaceans."
Domoic acid is a naturally occurring toxin sometimes found in the
microscopic marine algae that small fish, clams, and mussels eat. Crabs
and lobsters feed on these animals and concentrate the toxin in their
organs. The algal blooms can come and go quickly, so it's difficult to
determine exactly when and where they are present. Thus, this warning
applies to all lobster and rock crab harvested in southern California.
As soon as domoic acid toxin is no longer detected in samples, DFG will
issue another news release. In the meantime, check DFG’s website at
www.dfg.ca.gov/marine/healthadvisory.asp for updates and more
information on this situation.
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