Hawaiʻi Sea Grant to Host Premiere and Watch Party Addressing Ciguatera Poisoning
Honolulu, Hawaiʻi – August 14, 2025 – The University of Hawaiʻi Sea Grant College Programme will host a YouTube premiere and watch party focused on ciguatera poisoning, a prevalent seafood illness in tropical and subtropical regions. The event, scheduled for 12:00pm to 1:00pm at the Mānoa Campus (2525 Correa Road), aims to educate the public about the risks, causes, and prevention of this frequently enough-debilitating condition.
Ciguatera poisoning stems from toxins produced by microscopic algae, specifically dinoflagellates, found in warm, nearshore waters. These toxins accumulate in reef fish, posing a health risk to consumers. Researchers at the University of Hawaiʻi, led by Dr. Angela Sun, are actively studying these algae to map their distribution and identify the species responsible for toxin production. Their work is crucial for developing strategies to ensure seafood safety.
The event will feature insights into the symptoms of ciguatera poisoning, which can include nausea, vomiting, neurological issues, and temperature reversal – where hot feels cold and vice versa. Experts will explain how toxins move through the food chain and offer practical advice on minimizing the risk of contracting the illness. attendees will also learn about collaborative research efforts within the Pacific Ciguatera Network, involving partnerships in American Samoa and the Marshall Islands, spearheaded by Dr. Robert Richmond.
The Pacific Ciguatera Network, established in 2018, facilitates data sharing and coordinated research across the Pacific region. Recent studies indicate a potential link between climate change and increased ciguatera outbreaks, with rising ocean temperatures favoring the growth of toxic algae. The University of Hawaiʻi Sea Grant program has allocated $250,000 in funding over the past five years to support ciguatera research initiatives.
Event Details:
- Date: August 14, 2025
- Time: 12:00pm – 1:00pm
- Location: Mānoa Campus, 2525 Correa Road, Honolulu, HI
- YouTube Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3shfklWv-1o
Contact: Cindy Knapman, 808-956-7410, lknapman@hawaii.edu
Disclaimer: This article provides details about ciguatera poisoning and is not intended as medical advice. If you suspect you have ciguatera poisoning, please consult a healthcare professional instantly.
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