.Medregal and grouper top the list of ciguatera‑hit species in the Canary Islands
The latest recorded case involved a 2‑kg greater amberjack (Sphyraena viridensis) purchased at a supermarket in Fuerteventura.
Researchers from the Institute of Animal Health and Food Safety (IUSA) have recently taken part in a study led by the Epidemiology and Prevention Service of the Canary Islands’ Public Health Directorate. The investigation examined ciguatera incidence across the islands from 2008 to 2025, a period during which up to 28 outbreaks were documented—almost one per year.
The University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC) contributed IUSA’s capability to analyze ciguatoxin, the toxin responsible for the disease. Ciguatera is the most common non‑bacterial food poisoning linked to fish consumption, causing gastrointestinal, cardiovascular and neurological symptoms.
Ciguatoxins are produced by certain micro‑algae that accumulate in tropical fish and shellfish. These toxins move up the food chain as smaller fish are eaten by larger ones. Consequently, while smaller fish can also reach toxic levels, the largest specimens pose the greatest risk of triggering outbreaks.
“Continuous analysis of samples is essential to prevent contaminated specimens from reaching markets and the food chain,” the institute notes.
Detailed Analysis
- Primary culprits: amberjack (Seriola spp.) and grouper (Epinephelus spp.) are the species most frequently associated with ciguatera intoxication.
- Recent outbreak: a 2‑kg greater amberjack (Sphyraena viridensis) bought at a Fuerteventura supermarket caused one of the latest cases. This species is not included in the current ciguatoxin control program, and the study identified three additional outbreaks linked to non‑monitored species.
- Implications: the findings highlight the need to review and expand the ciguatoxin monitoring program for all fishery products and to strengthen emergency‑room physicians’ training in recognizing and diagnosing ciguatera.
The IUSA has served as the regional reference laboratory for ciguatera control since 2012, maintaining ongoing testing to keep contaminated fish out of the market.
The study’s results have been published in the Journal of Environmental Science and Health and are signed on behalf of ULPGC by María José Ramos Sosa, Andrés Sanchez Henao, and Fernando Real Valcárcel.