Scientists identify amnesia-causing microorganisms from shellfish farms in Luzon

Filipino scientists have recently confirmed the presence of amnesia-causing microorganisms in shellfish in Luzon.

According to a study from Ateneo de Manila University, biologists found Pseudo-nitzschia pungens and Pseudo-nitzschia brasiliana in shellfish farms in Luzon that could produce neurotoxin that can cause sickness and severe memory loss.

While most Pseudo-nitzschia diatoms are considered harmless, 58 species were noted to produce domoic acur (DA) that can induce vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps, and event permanent loss of short-term memory or “amnesic shellfish poisoning” when ingested.

The researchers noted this was the first time that P. brasiliana has been found in Luzon.

“It is important to be aware of the toxic potential of these diatoms and to monitor them accordingly, but such efforts must begin by establishing their presence in our waters. To our knowledge, the molecular taxonomy of Pseudo-nitzschia in the Philippines is virtually nonexistent,” said the researchers.

“Confirming species identities of a genus with half of its constituents known to produce DA is essential to HAB monitoring (in the Philippines),” they added.

Positive samples from shellfish gathered from Bacoor Bat and Pagbilao Bay in Luzon have been identified by the Ateneo de Manila University Department of Biology and Universiti Malaysia Sarawak. — Jiselle Anne Casucian/LA, GMA Integrated News