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SAFETY FIRST

Dangerous Saltwater Species

197 safety entries cover catalog species plus additional dangerous marine life with documented contact or consumption hazards. Use this page to quickly identify what should NOT be hand-handled and which food hazards require extra verification.

DO NOT TOUCH / DO NOT HAND-HANDLEDO NOT TOUCH does not mean the animal hunts people. It means contact or handling can cause serious injury. Absence from this directory does NOT mean a species is safe.Emergency: call 911 for breathing difficulty, loss of consciousness, severe bleeding, severe allergic reaction, or rapidly worsening symptoms.

197 species

How to read the warnings

POTENTIALLY LIFE-THREATENINGSERIOUS HAZARDCAUTIONFOOD TOXIN

Severity describes possible injury, not the likelihood that an animal will attack.

POTENTIALLY LIFE-THREATENING Safety-only

Portuguese man-of-war

Physalia physalis

VENOMOUS TENTACLES

Evidence: Exact species

  • DO NOT TOUCH — live or washed ashore. Tentacles can still sting after stranding; stings are intensely painful and, although rarely deadly, severe reactions can threaten life.
Sources

NOAA Ocean Service — Portuguese man-of-war

Safety entry — not a fishing-target species in the current catalog.

POTENTIALLY LIFE-THREATENING

Swordfish

Xiphias gladius

BILL ROSTRUMHIGH MERCURY

Evidence: Exact species, Authority-listed

  • POTENTIALLY FATAL PUNCTURE RISK — keep clear of the sword/rostrum. Fatal penetrating human injury has been documented.
  • FOOD ADVISORY — FDA/EPA lists this fish type among the highest-mercury choices to avoid for people who are or may become pregnant, breastfeeding, and young children.
Sources

FDA/EPA — Advice about eating fish · PubMed — fatal penetrating swordfish injury case report

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SERIOUS CONTACT HAZARD

Blackedge moray

Gymnothorax nigromarginatus

SERIOUS BITECIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • Keep hands away from the mouth and reef crevices. Moray bites can cause severe lacerations and heavy bleeding.
  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups · Florida Museum — Green moray · NOAA marine injury guidance — bites and octopus

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SERIOUS CONTACT HAZARD

Blacknose shark

Carcharhinus acronotus

SHARK BITEHIGH MERCURY

Evidence: Group-supported, Authority-listed

  • Do not hand-handle. Large sharks can cause severe bite injuries; most sharks do not seek people as prey.
  • FOOD ADVISORY — FDA/EPA lists this fish type among the highest-mercury choices to avoid for people who are or may become pregnant, breastfeeding, and young children.
Sources

FDA/EPA — Advice about eating fish · NOAA Fisheries — HMS recreational compliance / careful release · NOAA Fisheries — Sharks in Atlantic, Gulf and Caribbean waters

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SERIOUS CONTACT HAZARD

Blacktip shark

Carcharhinus limbatus

SHARK BITEHIGH MERCURY

Evidence: Group-supported, Authority-listed

  • Do not hand-handle. Large sharks can cause severe bite injuries; most sharks do not seek people as prey.
  • FOOD ADVISORY — FDA/EPA lists this fish type among the highest-mercury choices to avoid for people who are or may become pregnant, breastfeeding, and young children.
Sources

FDA/EPA — Advice about eating fish · NOAA Fisheries — HMS recreational compliance / careful release · NOAA Fisheries — Sharks in Atlantic, Gulf and Caribbean waters

Open full species guide →

SERIOUS CONTACT HAZARD

Blue shark

Prionace glauca

SHARK BITEHIGH MERCURY

Evidence: Group-supported, Authority-listed

  • Do not hand-handle. Large sharks can cause severe bite injuries; most sharks do not seek people as prey.
  • FOOD ADVISORY — FDA/EPA lists this fish type among the highest-mercury choices to avoid for people who are or may become pregnant, breastfeeding, and young children.
Sources

FDA/EPA — Advice about eating fish · NOAA Fisheries — HMS recreational compliance / careful release · NOAA Fisheries — Sharks in Atlantic, Gulf and Caribbean waters

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SERIOUS CONTACT HAZARD

Blue tang surgeonfish

Acanthurus coeruleus

CAUDAL SCALPELCIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Exact species, Group-supported

  • Do not grip near the tail. Scalpel-like caudal spines can produce deep cuts.
  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups · Florida Museum — Blue tang · Florida Museum — Ocean surgeon

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SERIOUS CONTACT HAZARD

Bull shark

Carcharhinus leucas

SHARK BITEHIGH MERCURY

Evidence: Group-supported, Authority-listed

  • Do not hand-handle. Large sharks can cause severe bite injuries; most sharks do not seek people as prey.
  • FOOD ADVISORY — FDA/EPA lists this fish type among the highest-mercury choices to avoid for people who are or may become pregnant, breastfeeding, and young children.
Sources

FDA/EPA — Advice about eating fish · NOAA Fisheries — HMS recreational compliance / careful release · NOAA Fisheries — Sharks in Atlantic, Gulf and Caribbean waters

Open full species guide →

SERIOUS CONTACT HAZARD

Caribbean reef shark

Carcharhinus perezii

SHARK BITEHIGH MERCURY

Evidence: Group-supported, Authority-listed

  • Do not hand-handle. Large sharks can cause severe bite injuries; most sharks do not seek people as prey.
  • FOOD ADVISORY — FDA/EPA lists this fish type among the highest-mercury choices to avoid for people who are or may become pregnant, breastfeeding, and young children.
Sources

FDA/EPA — Advice about eating fish · NOAA Fisheries — HMS recreational compliance / careful release · NOAA Fisheries — Sharks in Atlantic, Gulf and Caribbean waters

Open full species guide →

SERIOUS CONTACT HAZARD

Chain moray

Echidna catenata

SERIOUS BITECIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • Keep hands away from the mouth and reef crevices. Moray bites can cause severe lacerations and heavy bleeding.
  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups · Florida Museum — Green moray · NOAA marine injury guidance — bites and octopus

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SERIOUS CONTACT HAZARD

Chestnut moray

Enchelycore carychroa

SERIOUS BITECIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • Keep hands away from the mouth and reef crevices. Moray bites can cause severe lacerations and heavy bleeding.
  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups · Florida Museum — Green moray · NOAA marine injury guidance — bites and octopus

Open full species guide →

SERIOUS CONTACT HAZARD

Goldentail moray

Gymnothorax miliaris

SERIOUS BITECIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • Keep hands away from the mouth and reef crevices. Moray bites can cause severe lacerations and heavy bleeding.
  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups · Florida Museum — Green moray · NOAA marine injury guidance — bites and octopus

Open full species guide →

SERIOUS CONTACT HAZARD

Great barracuda

Sphyraena barracuda

SERIOUS BITECIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Exact species, Group-supported

  • Keep clear of the mouth — razor-sharp teeth can cause serious lacerations.
  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups · Florida Museum — Great barracuda · NOAA marine injury guidance — bites and octopus

Open full species guide →

SERIOUS CONTACT HAZARD

Green moray

Gymnothorax funebris

SERIOUS BITECIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Exact species, Group-supported

  • Keep hands away from the mouth and reef crevices. Moray bites can cause severe lacerations and heavy bleeding.
  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups · Florida Museum — Green moray · NOAA marine injury guidance — bites and octopus

Open full species guide →

SERIOUS CONTACT HAZARD

Lemon shark

Negaprion brevirostris

SHARK BITEHIGH MERCURY

Evidence: Group-supported, Authority-listed

  • Do not hand-handle. Large sharks can cause severe bite injuries; most sharks do not seek people as prey.
  • FOOD ADVISORY — FDA/EPA lists this fish type among the highest-mercury choices to avoid for people who are or may become pregnant, breastfeeding, and young children.
Sources

FDA/EPA — Advice about eating fish · NOAA Fisheries — HMS recreational compliance / careful release · NOAA Fisheries — Sharks in Atlantic, Gulf and Caribbean waters

Open full species guide →

SERIOUS CONTACT HAZARD

Marbled moray

Uropterygius macularius

SERIOUS BITECIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • Keep hands away from the mouth and reef crevices. Moray bites can cause severe lacerations and heavy bleeding.
  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups · Florida Museum — Green moray · NOAA marine injury guidance — bites and octopus

Open full species guide →

SERIOUS CONTACT HAZARD

Mottlemargin moray

Gymnothorax ocellatus

SERIOUS BITECIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • Keep hands away from the mouth and reef crevices. Moray bites can cause severe lacerations and heavy bleeding.
  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups · Florida Museum — Green moray · NOAA marine injury guidance — bites and octopus

Open full species guide →

SERIOUS CONTACT HAZARD

Nurse shark

Ginglymostoma cirratum

SHARK BITEHIGH MERCURY

Evidence: Group-supported, Authority-listed

  • Do not hand-handle. Large sharks can cause severe bite injuries; most sharks do not seek people as prey.
  • FOOD ADVISORY — FDA/EPA lists this fish type among the highest-mercury choices to avoid for people who are or may become pregnant, breastfeeding, and young children.
Sources

FDA/EPA — Advice about eating fish · NOAA Fisheries — HMS recreational compliance / careful release · NOAA Fisheries — Sharks in Atlantic, Gulf and Caribbean waters

Open full species guide →

SERIOUS CONTACT HAZARD

Ocean surgeon

Acanthurus bahianus

CAUDAL SCALPELCIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Exact species, Group-supported

  • Do not grip near the tail. Scalpel-like caudal spines can produce deep cuts.
  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups · Florida Museum — Blue tang · Florida Museum — Ocean surgeon

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SERIOUS CONTACT HAZARD

Oceanic whitetip shark

Carcharhinus longimanus

SHARK BITEHIGH MERCURY

Evidence: Group-supported, Authority-listed

  • Do not hand-handle. Large sharks can cause severe bite injuries; most sharks do not seek people as prey.
  • FOOD ADVISORY — FDA/EPA lists this fish type among the highest-mercury choices to avoid for people who are or may become pregnant, breastfeeding, and young children.
Sources

FDA/EPA — Advice about eating fish · NOAA Fisheries — HMS recreational compliance / careful release · NOAA Fisheries — Sharks in Atlantic, Gulf and Caribbean waters

Open full species guide →

SERIOUS CONTACT HAZARD

Polygon moray

Gymnothorax polygonius

SERIOUS BITECIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • Keep hands away from the mouth and reef crevices. Moray bites can cause severe lacerations and heavy bleeding.
  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups · Florida Museum — Green moray · NOAA marine injury guidance — bites and octopus

Open full species guide →

SERIOUS CONTACT HAZARD

Purplemouth moray

Gymnothorax vicinus

SERIOUS BITECIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • Keep hands away from the mouth and reef crevices. Moray bites can cause severe lacerations and heavy bleeding.
  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups · Florida Museum — Green moray · NOAA marine injury guidance — bites and octopus

Open full species guide →

SERIOUS CONTACT HAZARD

Red lionfish

Pterois volitans

VENOMOUS SPINESCIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Exact species, Group-supported

  • DO NOT TOUCH — venomous fin spines can cause a serious sting.
  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · Puerto Rico DRNA — Lionfish safety · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups · NOAA National Marine Sanctuaries — Lionfish handling

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SERIOUS CONTACT HAZARD

Reticulate moray

Muraena retifera

SERIOUS BITECIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • Keep hands away from the mouth and reef crevices. Moray bites can cause severe lacerations and heavy bleeding.
  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups · Florida Museum — Green moray · NOAA marine injury guidance — bites and octopus

Open full species guide →

SERIOUS CONTACT HAZARD

Saddled moray

Gymnothorax conspersus

SERIOUS BITECIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • Keep hands away from the mouth and reef crevices. Moray bites can cause severe lacerations and heavy bleeding.
  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups · Florida Museum — Green moray · NOAA marine injury guidance — bites and octopus

Open full species guide →

SERIOUS CONTACT HAZARD

Sharktooth moray

Gymnothorax maderensis

SERIOUS BITECIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • Keep hands away from the mouth and reef crevices. Moray bites can cause severe lacerations and heavy bleeding.
  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups · Florida Museum — Green moray · NOAA marine injury guidance — bites and octopus

Open full species guide →

SERIOUS CONTACT HAZARD

Silky shark

Carcharhinus falciformis

SHARK BITEHIGH MERCURY

Evidence: Group-supported, Authority-listed

  • Do not hand-handle. Large sharks can cause severe bite injuries; most sharks do not seek people as prey.
  • FOOD ADVISORY — FDA/EPA lists this fish type among the highest-mercury choices to avoid for people who are or may become pregnant, breastfeeding, and young children.
Sources

FDA/EPA — Advice about eating fish · NOAA Fisheries — HMS recreational compliance / careful release · NOAA Fisheries — Sharks in Atlantic, Gulf and Caribbean waters

Open full species guide →

SERIOUS CONTACT HAZARD

Spotted moray

Gymnothorax moringa

SERIOUS BITECIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • Keep hands away from the mouth and reef crevices. Moray bites can cause severe lacerations and heavy bleeding.
  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups · Florida Museum — Green moray · NOAA marine injury guidance — bites and octopus

Open full species guide →

SERIOUS CONTACT HAZARD

Stout moray

Muraena robusta

SERIOUS BITECIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • Keep hands away from the mouth and reef crevices. Moray bites can cause severe lacerations and heavy bleeding.
  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups · Florida Museum — Green moray · NOAA marine injury guidance — bites and octopus

Open full species guide →

SERIOUS CONTACT HAZARD

Viper moray

Enchelycore nigricans

SERIOUS BITECIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • Keep hands away from the mouth and reef crevices. Moray bites can cause severe lacerations and heavy bleeding.
  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups · Florida Museum — Green moray · NOAA marine injury guidance — bites and octopus

Open full species guide →

BITE / PUNCTURE / CUT HAZARD

Antilles sawtail catshark

Galeus antillensis

SHARK BITEHIGH MERCURY

Evidence: Group-supported, Authority-listed

  • Avoid the mouth when handling or releasing. Even smaller sharks can bite defensively.
  • FOOD ADVISORY — FDA/EPA lists this fish type among the highest-mercury choices to avoid for people who are or may become pregnant, breastfeeding, and young children.
Sources

FDA/EPA — Advice about eating fish · NOAA Fisheries — HMS recreational compliance / careful release · NOAA Fisheries — Sharks in Atlantic, Gulf and Caribbean waters

Open full species guide →

BITE / PUNCTURE / CUT HAZARD

Atlantic sharpnose shark

Rhizoprionodon terraenovae

SHARK BITEHIGH MERCURY

Evidence: Group-supported, Authority-listed

  • Avoid the mouth when handling or releasing. Even smaller sharks can bite defensively.
  • FOOD ADVISORY — FDA/EPA lists this fish type among the highest-mercury choices to avoid for people who are or may become pregnant, breastfeeding, and young children.
Sources

FDA/EPA — Advice about eating fish · NOAA Fisheries — HMS recreational compliance / careful release · NOAA Fisheries — Sharks in Atlantic, Gulf and Caribbean waters

Open full species guide →

BITE / PUNCTURE / CUT HAZARD Safety-only

Bearded fireworm

Hermodice carunculata

VENOMOUS BRISTLES

Evidence: Exact species

  • DO NOT TOUCH — venom-filled bristles can break off in skin and cause intense burning and irritation.
Sources

Smithsonian Ocean — Bearded fireworm

Safety entry — not a fishing-target species in the current catalog.

BITE / PUNCTURE / CUT HAZARD

Blue marlin

Makaira nigricans

BILL ROSTRUMHIGH MERCURYSCOMBROID HISTAMINE RISK

Evidence: Handling caution, Group-supported, Authority-listed

  • Keep clear of the bill/rostrum during landing and release; use controlled in-water handling.
  • FOOD ADVISORY — FDA/EPA lists this fish type among the highest-mercury choices to avoid for people who are or may become pregnant, breastfeeding, and young children.
  • FOOD STORAGE HAZARD — if this fish is not promptly and properly chilled after catch, histamine/scombrotoxin can form. Cooking, freezing or smoking does not reliably destroy the toxin once formed.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Scombroid (histamine) fish poisoning · FDA/EPA — Advice about eating fish · FDA — Scombrotoxin poisoning and decomposition · NOAA Fisheries — HMS recreational compliance / careful release

Open full species guide →

BITE / PUNCTURE / CUT HAZARD

Caribbean lanternshark

Etmopterus hillianus

SHARK BITEHIGH MERCURY

Evidence: Group-supported, Authority-listed

  • Avoid the mouth when handling or releasing. Even smaller sharks can bite defensively.
  • FOOD ADVISORY — FDA/EPA lists this fish type among the highest-mercury choices to avoid for people who are or may become pregnant, breastfeeding, and young children.
Sources

FDA/EPA — Advice about eating fish · NOAA Fisheries — HMS recreational compliance / careful release · NOAA Fisheries — Sharks in Atlantic, Gulf and Caribbean waters

Open full species guide →

BITE / PUNCTURE / CUT HAZARD

Caribbean sharpnose shark

Rhizoprionodon porosus

SHARK BITEHIGH MERCURY

Evidence: Group-supported, Authority-listed

  • Avoid the mouth when handling or releasing. Even smaller sharks can bite defensively.
  • FOOD ADVISORY — FDA/EPA lists this fish type among the highest-mercury choices to avoid for people who are or may become pregnant, breastfeeding, and young children.
Sources

FDA/EPA — Advice about eating fish · NOAA Fisheries — HMS recreational compliance / careful release · NOAA Fisheries — Sharks in Atlantic, Gulf and Caribbean waters

Open full species guide →

BITE / PUNCTURE / CUT HAZARD

Dwarf catshark

Scyliorhinus torrei

SHARK BITEHIGH MERCURY

Evidence: Group-supported, Authority-listed

  • Avoid the mouth when handling or releasing. Even smaller sharks can bite defensively.
  • FOOD ADVISORY — FDA/EPA lists this fish type among the highest-mercury choices to avoid for people who are or may become pregnant, breastfeeding, and young children.
Sources

FDA/EPA — Advice about eating fish · NOAA Fisheries — HMS recreational compliance / careful release · NOAA Fisheries — Sharks in Atlantic, Gulf and Caribbean waters

Open full species guide →

BITE / PUNCTURE / CUT HAZARD Safety-only

Fire coral

Millepora spp.

STINGING CELLS

Evidence: Group-supported

  • DO NOT TOUCH — fire coral has stinging cells that can cause intense burning, pain, redness and welts.
Sources

NOAA National Marine Sanctuaries — Fire coral

Safety entry — not a fishing-target species in the current catalog.

BITE / PUNCTURE / CUT HAZARD

Guachanche barracuda

Sphyraena guachancho

BITE TEETHCIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Exact species, Group-supported

  • Keep fingers away from the mouth and teeth when landing or releasing.
  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups · Florida Museum — Great barracuda

Open full species guide →

BITE / PUNCTURE / CUT HAZARD

Gulper shark

Centrophorus granulosus

SHARK BITEHIGH MERCURY

Evidence: Group-supported, Authority-listed

  • Avoid the mouth when handling or releasing. Even smaller sharks can bite defensively.
  • FOOD ADVISORY — FDA/EPA lists this fish type among the highest-mercury choices to avoid for people who are or may become pregnant, breastfeeding, and young children.
Sources

FDA/EPA — Advice about eating fish · NOAA Fisheries — HMS recreational compliance / careful release · NOAA Fisheries — Sharks in Atlantic, Gulf and Caribbean waters

Open full species guide →

BITE / PUNCTURE / CUT HAZARD

Roughtail catshark

Galeus arae

SHARK BITEHIGH MERCURY

Evidence: Group-supported, Authority-listed

  • Avoid the mouth when handling or releasing. Even smaller sharks can bite defensively.
  • FOOD ADVISORY — FDA/EPA lists this fish type among the highest-mercury choices to avoid for people who are or may become pregnant, breastfeeding, and young children.
Sources

FDA/EPA — Advice about eating fish · NOAA Fisheries — HMS recreational compliance / careful release · NOAA Fisheries — Sharks in Atlantic, Gulf and Caribbean waters

Open full species guide →

BITE / PUNCTURE / CUT HAZARD

Sharpnose sevengill shark

Heptranchias perlo

SHARK BITEHIGH MERCURY

Evidence: Group-supported, Authority-listed

  • Avoid the mouth when handling or releasing. Even smaller sharks can bite defensively.
  • FOOD ADVISORY — FDA/EPA lists this fish type among the highest-mercury choices to avoid for people who are or may become pregnant, breastfeeding, and young children.
Sources

FDA/EPA — Advice about eating fish · NOAA Fisheries — HMS recreational compliance / careful release · NOAA Fisheries — Sharks in Atlantic, Gulf and Caribbean waters

Open full species guide →

BITE / PUNCTURE / CUT HAZARD

Striped sawtail catshark

Galeus springeri

SHARK BITEHIGH MERCURY

Evidence: Group-supported, Authority-listed

  • Avoid the mouth when handling or releasing. Even smaller sharks can bite defensively.
  • FOOD ADVISORY — FDA/EPA lists this fish type among the highest-mercury choices to avoid for people who are or may become pregnant, breastfeeding, and young children.
Sources

FDA/EPA — Advice about eating fish · NOAA Fisheries — HMS recreational compliance / careful release · NOAA Fisheries — Sharks in Atlantic, Gulf and Caribbean waters

Open full species guide →

BITE / PUNCTURE / CUT HAZARD

Whitesaddled catshark

Scyliorhinus hesperius

SHARK BITEHIGH MERCURY

Evidence: Group-supported, Authority-listed

  • Avoid the mouth when handling or releasing. Even smaller sharks can bite defensively.
  • FOOD ADVISORY — FDA/EPA lists this fish type among the highest-mercury choices to avoid for people who are or may become pregnant, breastfeeding, and young children.
Sources

FDA/EPA — Advice about eating fish · NOAA Fisheries — HMS recreational compliance / careful release · NOAA Fisheries — Sharks in Atlantic, Gulf and Caribbean waters

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

African pompano

Alectis ciliaris

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Exact species

  • PUERTO RICO FOOD TOXIN EVIDENCE — FDA documented a 2024 Puerto Rico ciguatera investigation with Caribbean ciguatoxin confirmed in this species. Ciguatoxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Almaco jack

Seriola rivoliana

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Atlantic bumper

Chloroscombrus chrysurus

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Atlantic leatherjack

Oligoplites saurus

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Atlantic look down

Selene vomer

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Atlantic moonfish

Selene setapinnis

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Bar jack

Caranx ruber

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Bigeye scad

Selar crumenophthalmus

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Bigeye tuna

Thunnus obesus

HIGH MERCURYSCOMBROID HISTAMINE RISK

Evidence: Group-supported, Authority-listed

  • FOOD ADVISORY — FDA/EPA lists this fish type among the highest-mercury choices to avoid for people who are or may become pregnant, breastfeeding, and young children.
  • FOOD STORAGE HAZARD — if this fish is not promptly and properly chilled after catch, histamine/scombrotoxin can form. Cooking, freezing or smoking does not reliably destroy the toxin once formed.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Scombroid (histamine) fish poisoning · FDA/EPA — Advice about eating fish · FDA — Scombrotoxin poisoning and decomposition

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Black grouper

Mycteroperca bonaci

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Black jack

Caranx lugubris

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Blackear wrasse

Halichoeres poeyi

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Blackfin snapper

Lutjanus buccanella

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Blue parrotfish

Scarus coeruleus

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Blue runner

Caranx crysos

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Bluehead

Thalassoma bifasciatum

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Bluelip parrotfish

Cryptotomus roseus

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Bucktooth parrotfish

Sparisoma radians

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Cardinal snapper

Pristipomoides macrophthalmus

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Cero

Scomberomorus regalis

CIGUATERA RISKSCOMBROID HISTAMINE RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
  • FOOD STORAGE HAZARD — if this fish is not promptly and properly chilled after catch, histamine/scombrotoxin can form. Cooking, freezing or smoking does not reliably destroy the toxin once formed.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC Yellow Book — Scombroid (histamine) fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups · FDA — Scombrotoxin poisoning and decomposition

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Clown wrasse

Halichoeres maculipinna

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Comb grouper

Mycteroperca acutirostris

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Coney

Cephalopholis fulva

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Creolefish

Paranthias furcifer

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Crevalle jack

Caranx hippos

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Cubera snapper

Lutjanus cyanopterus

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Exact species

  • PUERTO RICO FOOD TOXIN EVIDENCE — FDA documented a 2024 Puerto Rico ciguatera investigation with Caribbean ciguatoxin confirmed in this species. Ciguatoxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Doctorfish

Acanthurus chirurgus

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Dog snapper

Lutjanus jocu

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Emerald parrotfish

Nicholsina usta

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Full moonfish

Selene brownii

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Goliath grouper

Epinephelus itajara

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Graysby

Cephalopholis cruentata

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Greater amberjack

Seriola dumerili

CIGUATERA RISKSCOMBROID HISTAMINE RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
  • FOOD STORAGE HAZARD — if this fish is not promptly and properly chilled after catch, histamine/scombrotoxin can form. Cooking, freezing or smoking does not reliably destroy the toxin once formed.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC Yellow Book — Scombroid (histamine) fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups · FDA — Scombrotoxin poisoning and decomposition

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Grey snapper

Lutjanus griseus

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Horse-eye jack

Caranx latus

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

King mackerel

Scomberomorus cavalla

CIGUATERA RISKHIGH MERCURYSCOMBROID HISTAMINE RISK

Evidence: Group-supported, Authority-listed

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
  • FOOD ADVISORY — FDA/EPA lists this fish type among the highest-mercury choices to avoid for people who are or may become pregnant, breastfeeding, and young children.
  • FOOD STORAGE HAZARD — if this fish is not promptly and properly chilled after catch, histamine/scombrotoxin can form. Cooking, freezing or smoking does not reliably destroy the toxin once formed.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC Yellow Book — Scombroid (histamine) fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups · FDA/EPA — Advice about eating fish · FDA — Scombrotoxin poisoning and decomposition

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Lane snapper

Lutjanus synagris

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Lesser amberjack

Seriola fasciata

CIGUATERA RISKSCOMBROID HISTAMINE RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
  • FOOD STORAGE HAZARD — if this fish is not promptly and properly chilled after catch, histamine/scombrotoxin can form. Cooking, freezing or smoking does not reliably destroy the toxin once formed.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC Yellow Book — Scombroid (histamine) fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups · FDA — Scombrotoxin poisoning and decomposition

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Mackerel scad

Decapterus macarellus

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Mahogany snapper

Lutjanus mahogoni

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Marbled grouper

Dermatolepis inermis

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Midnight parrotfish

Scarus coelestinus

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Misty grouper

Hyporthodus mystacinus

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Mutton hamlet

Alphestes afer

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Mutton snapper

Lutjanus analis

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Nassau grouper

Epinephelus striatus

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Northern red snapper

Lutjanus campechanus

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Painted wrasse

Halichoeres caudalis

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Princess parrotfish

Scarus taeniopterus

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Puddingwife

Halichoeres radiatus

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Queen parrotfish

Scarus vetula

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Queen snapper

Etelis oculatus

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Rainbow parrotfish

Scarus guacamaia

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

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FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Rainbow runner

Elagatis bipinnulata

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Rainbow wrasse

Halichoeres pictus

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Red grouper

Epinephelus morio

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Red hind

Epinephelus guttatus

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Redband parrotfish

Sparisoma aurofrenatum

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Redfin parrotfish

Sparisoma rubripinne

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Redtail parrotfish

Sparisoma chrysopterum

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Rock hind

Epinephelus adscensionis

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Round scad

Decapterus punctatus

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Schoolmaster snapper

Lutjanus apodus

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Serra Spanish mackerel

Scomberomorus brasiliensis

CIGUATERA RISKSCOMBROID HISTAMINE RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
  • FOOD STORAGE HAZARD — if this fish is not promptly and properly chilled after catch, histamine/scombrotoxin can form. Cooking, freezing or smoking does not reliably destroy the toxin once formed.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC Yellow Book — Scombroid (histamine) fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups · FDA — Scombrotoxin poisoning and decomposition

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FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Silk snapper

Lutjanus vivanus

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Slippery dick

Halichoeres bivittatus

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Snowy grouper

Hyporthodus niveatus

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Spanish hogfish

Bodianus rufus

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Spotfin hogfish

Bodianus pulchellus

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Stoplight parrotfish

Sparisoma viride

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Striped parrotfish

Scarus iseri

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Tiger grouper

Mycteroperca tigris

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Vermilion snapper

Rhomboplites aurorubens

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Wenchman

Pristipomoides aquilonaris

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Yellow jack

Caranx bartholomaei

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Yellowcheek wrasse

Halichoeres cyanocephalus

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Yellowfin grouper

Mycteroperca venenosa

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Yellowhead wrasse

Halichoeres garnoti

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Yellowmouth grouper

Mycteroperca interstitialis

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

FOOD-TOXIN HAZARD

Yellowtail snapper

Ocyurus chrysurus

CIGUATERA RISK

Evidence: Group-supported

  • FOOD TOXIN RISK — this fish belongs to a group associated with ciguatera in tropical/Caribbean waters. Risk varies by location, species and fish; the toxin cannot be detected by appearance, taste or smell and cooking does not destroy it.
Sources

CDC Yellow Book — Ciguatera fish poisoning · CDC — Seafood poisoning / ciguatera · FDA — Ciguatera poisoning reports and associated fish groups

Open full species guide →

BigJoe safety rule

If you are not 100% sure of the identification or hazard, do not touch it. Do not put hands into reef crevices. Keep hands and feet away from mouths, spines, barbs and claws. A species missing from this list must not be assumed safe.

This page is a safety reference, not medical care. Seek urgent medical attention for serious injuries.