Luzon, the most populous group of islands in the Philippines, is faced with a new potential health concern. The presence of diatoms in shellfish farms can cause amnesia. Scientists from Ateneo de Manila University and Universiti Malaysia Sarawak discovered two species of Pseudo-nitzschia diatoms. These diatoms are capable of producing domoic acid. It is a neurotoxin that can lead to severe symptoms, including memory loss.
These tiny glass-shelled organisms, mostly harmless, can cause a condition called “amnesiac shellfish poisoning” (ASP). When they’re consumed in contaminated shellfish. Symptoms can range from stomach cramps and nausea. In severe cases, it can cause permanent short-term memory loss. While the dangers of domoic acid are known. We are unclear about how extensively Pseudo-nitzschia has proliferated in the Philippines. Now, this information is clearer.
Researchers studied water samples from shellfish farms in Bacoor Bay and Pagbilao Bay and identified Pseudo-nitzschia pungens and Pseudo-nitzschia brasiliana. Both are capable of producing domoic acid. Notably, this is the first time P. brasiliana has been found in Luzon.
The scientists emphasize the importance of monitoring these diatoms. Especially during algal blooms or “red tides.” When domoic acid concentrations spike in shellfish like mussels and clams can lead to harmful algal blooms (HAB). Confirming the species identities of a genus is crucial. Half of its constituents are known to produce domoic acid (DA). This is essential to HAB monitoring in the Philippines, they stated.
This discovery needs the public to increase awareness and be careful what they eat. To assure their safety and the shellfish industry monitoring these potentially harmful organisms is necessary. In the meantime, people can avoid these shellfish or go vegan as a choice.
