saxitoxin
/ˌsæksɪˈtoʊksɪn/
noun
- A powerful poison produced by certain marine algae and shellfish, which can cause paralysis and death if ingested by humans.
- Scientists monitor saxitoxin levels in coastal waters to keep seafood safe.
- Saxitoxin is one of the most dangerous natural toxins found in shellfish.
- Eating contaminated mussels can lead to saxitoxin poisoning, which affects the nervous system.