Natural History

Domoic acid

Domoic acid (DA) is a kainic acid–type neurotoxin that causes amnesic shellfish poisoning (ASP). It is produced by algae and accumulates in shellfish, sardines, and anchovies. When sea lions, otters, cetaceans, humans, and other predators eat contaminated animals, poisoning may result. Exposure to this compound affects the brain, causing seizures, delirium and possibly death.

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See also

• ▸Dinosaur Provincial Park
• ▸French corvette Mutine (1799)
• ▸Dietary biology of the brown bear

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