− | Algae can produce toxins that may then accumulate in filter-feeding shellfish. Use of Phosphate-based fertilizers on farms may lead to algal blooms in costal waters leading to toxin production. These toxins may cause Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) & other similar poisonings. Algal toxins are not destroyed by cooking. | + | Algae can produce toxins that may then accumulate in filter-feeding shellfish. Use of Phosphate-based fertilizers on farms may lead to algal blooms in costal waters (which may be seen as a red tide) leading to toxin production. These toxins may cause Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) & other similar poisonings. Algal toxins are not destroyed by cooking. The clinical signs of PSP are numbness & tingling of the mouth & lips. Cranial nerves may be affected. Weakness of the limbs & paralysis progress & in some cases death may occur due respiratory failure due to paralysis of the respiratory muscles. |