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Ciguatera is an unusual form of food poisoning caused by eating large reef fish which have eaten smaller fish, which have eaten algae, which shelter a tiny organism, which produces a toxin that causes ciguatera.
Within 24 hours symptoms emerge including numbness around the fingers, toes and mouth, a burning sensation when in contact with cold, joint pain, nausea, itchiness and for people with high sensitivity, breathing difficulties.
Problems may be encountered with eating coral trout, spanish mackerel, reef cod, barracuda, emperor, groper, sturgeon, trevally and kingfish.
Any large, warm water predatory fish over 6kg should be treated with suspicion.
Under no circumstances should the head, roe or liver be eaten, and it is wise to eat a small portion of any large fish to test for reactions 24 hours before serving.
If you develop symptoms seek medical advice.
Refer to the Queensland Health Ciguatera Fact Sheet for more information.
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