Bad news for Dungeness & Rock crab lovers: dangerous levels of neurotoxin has been found in crabs on the West Coast, connected to a massive algae bloom.
The California Health Department has issued a health advisory, advising people (and their pets) to avoid eating Rock and Dungeness crab.
These toxins are being found in crabs as far north as Oregon and all the way down the coast to Santa Barbara. Which means us, Sonoma County!
The toxin, which has killed seabirds, seals, dolphins and whales, has a terrible impact on humans: seizures, comas and death.
While rock crab is caught year round, Dungeness season starts Saturday for recreational catch and commercial later this month. This season is expected to bring $60 million to the state and serves as the livelihood for many fisherman and crabbers.
According to the state health department report: “The conditions that support the growth of this plant are impossible to predict, and it is unknown when the levels found in crab will subside… The health advisory will be lifted once the levels are no longer above acceptable levels.”
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