Surreal illustration of toxic algae bloom and snakes in a forest.

Unseen Dangers: How Marine Toxins and Venomous Creatures Are Impacting Health

Avery Sinclair in Health & Wellness August 2025 • 4 min read.

"From toxic algae blooms to exotic snakebites, emerging environmental threats are changing how poison control centers address public health."

Our world is changing at an unprecedented pace. While technological advancements and global interconnectedness bring many benefits, they also create new and unexpected challenges for public health. Among these are the rising threats posed by marine toxins and venomous creatures, influenced by factors like climate change, increased global trade, and the spread of invasive species.

For many years, poison control centers have been the front line of defense against accidental poisonings and exposures to known toxins. However, these centers are now facing a surge of incidents involving previously rare or unknown substances, stretching their resources and requiring them to adapt quickly. From the coasts of France to inland communities, the changing landscape of toxins and venom is demanding a renewed focus on preparedness and response.

This article explores some of the most pressing issues related to marine toxins and venomous creatures, examining how environmental shifts and human activities are contributing to increased risks. It also highlights the crucial role that poison control centers play in identifying, managing, and mitigating these emerging threats to protect public health.

The Rising Tide of Marine Toxins

Surreal illustration of toxic algae bloom and snakes in a forest.

Marine environments are facing significant disruptions due to climate change and pollution. These disturbances can trigger harmful algal blooms, increasing the concentration of toxins in seafood and creating new airborne threats. Several studies and reports highlight the emergence of new toxicological challenges linked to these changes.

One notable example is the proliferation of Ostreopsis, a type of dinoflagellate that produces palytoxin-like substances. These so-called 'ostreocins' can contaminate seawater and the surrounding air, posing a risk to people living near affected coastal areas. Symptoms of exposure may include respiratory issues and fever.

Ciguatera Poisoning: Cases are now being reported in areas close to Europe, such as Madeira and the Canary Islands, indicating a geographical shift in the distribution of this toxin.
Palythoa and Zoanthus Corals: These soft corals, popular in marine aquariums, can release toxins that cause severe respiratory and ocular symptoms in aquarium enthusiasts.
Cyanobacteria Blooms: The increasing frequency of cyanobacteria blooms in fresh and brackish waters produces neurotoxins, nephrotoxins, and dermatotoxins, with potential but not fully understood consequences for both animals and humans.

These developments underscore the need for constant vigilance and updated risk assessments. Poison control centers and public health organizations must stay informed about the changing distribution and toxicity of marine organisms to protect communities effectively.

A Call to Vigilance and Preparedness

The challenges posed by marine toxins, venomous creatures, and emerging environmental threats require a proactive and collaborative approach. Poison control centers, healthcare providers, researchers, and policymakers must work together to enhance surveillance, improve diagnostic capabilities, and develop effective treatment strategies. By raising awareness and promoting responsible practices, we can safeguard public health and protect our communities from these unseen dangers.

About this Article -

This article was crafted using a human-AI hybrid and collaborative approach. AI assisted our team with initial drafting, research insights, identifying key questions, and image generation. Our human editors guided topic selection, defined the angle, structured the content, ensured factual accuracy and relevance, refined the tone, and conducted thorough editing to deliver helpful, high-quality information.See our About page for more information.

This article is based on research published under:

DOI-LINK: 10.1016/j.toxac.2018.07.087, Alternate LINK

Title: Envenimations Ophidiennes En France Métropolitaine Et Outre-Mer : Les Centres Antipoison Au Cœur De La Prise En Charge

Subject: Health, Toxicology and Mutagenesis

Journal: Toxicologie Analytique et Clinique

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Authors: D. Boels

Published: 2018-09-01

Everything You Need To Know

Why are marine toxins becoming a greater concern for public health?

Marine toxins are becoming more prevalent due to climate change and pollution, leading to harmful algal blooms. Specifically, the dinoflagellate Ostreopsis produces ostreocins, which contaminate seawater and air, causing respiratory issues. Additionally, Ciguatera poisoning is now reported in new regions like Madeira and the Canary Islands, while Palythoa and Zoanthus corals in aquariums release toxins that cause respiratory and ocular symptoms. Cyanobacteria blooms are also increasingly common, producing neurotoxins, nephrotoxins, and dermatotoxins in fresh and brackish waters.

What role do poison control centers play in addressing the risks associated with marine toxins and venomous creatures?

Poison control centers are crucial for managing the increasing incidents of exposure to previously rare or unknown substances, including marine toxins and venomous creatures. They play a vital role in identifying and mitigating these emerging threats by providing timely information and treatment advice to healthcare providers and the public. They help address challenges posed by these dangers.

How is the geographical distribution of Ciguatera poisoning changing, and what are the implications?

Ciguatera poisoning is expanding geographically, with cases now appearing in regions closer to Europe like Madeira and the Canary Islands. This expansion suggests a shift in the distribution of the causative toxins due to changing environmental conditions, potentially affecting more people and requiring healthcare providers in these areas to become familiar with the diagnosis and treatment of Ciguatera poisoning.

What specific risks do Palythoa and Zoanthus corals pose, and who is most vulnerable?

Palythoa and Zoanthus corals release toxins that pose a risk primarily to aquarium enthusiasts. Exposure to these toxins can cause severe respiratory and ocular symptoms. Proper handling and maintenance procedures for marine aquariums are essential to minimize the risk of toxin exposure. Poison control centers can provide guidance on managing exposures and treating the resulting symptoms.

What types of toxins are produced by cyanobacteria blooms, and what are their potential health consequences?

Cyanobacteria blooms produce neurotoxins, nephrotoxins, and dermatotoxins that can affect both animals and humans. The consequences of exposure are not fully understood. These blooms occur more frequently in fresh and brackish waters due to factors like nutrient pollution and climate change. Vigilance and monitoring are needed to assess the potential health risks associated with cyanobacteria blooms and to develop strategies for prevention and mitigation.