Ciguatera is a form of food poisoning associated with some tropical reef-feeding fish. Not all tropical reefs are affected however, and only some species of fish are susceptible.

It is a naturally occurring marine toxin that accumulates in the food chain. It is passed from fish that feed on algae associated with some tropical reefs, to larger, predatory fish, which are in turn eaten by humans.

While the chances of contracting Ciguatera poisoning are low, it is not uncommon, especially from tropical reef fish caught off the Queensland coast. Most cases of Ciguatera poisoning are a result of consuming recreational catch of large fish.

Sydney Fish Market has strict guidelines in place to restrict potentially contaminated fish from being sold at the wholesale auction.   The restrictions include rejection of potentially contaminated fish from prohibited supply regions and the introduction of maximum size limits for some tropical reef fish. 

Since implementing these guidelines, no known cases of Ciguatera from fish sold through Sydney Fish Market have been reported. 

To assist in controlling Ciguatera in commercial fish, the NSW Food Authority has provided the seafood industry with guidelines as part of their Food Safety Programs.

Fishers have been advised to avoid landing large Mackerel caught north of Cape Bryon. In addition, the NSW Food Authority has provided the same information to seafood processors.

The guidelines include:

• Rejecting those species known to be associated with Ciguatera;
• Rejecting other species based on the catch location and size.

Contact your local doctor or local Area Health Service.