Deadly coral toxin released during home fish tank cleaning

Zoanthid corals release a toxic substance called polytoxin when provoked. Polytoxin is lethal if ingested or injected and can be dangerous when airborne. Scrubbing or boiling these corals can release the toxin as an aerosol, posing inhalation risks. Symptoms of exposure include flu-like symptoms such as high fever, muscle pain, coughing, difficulty breathing, and eye irritation.

What is the name of the toxic substance released by Zoanthid corals?

• Neurotoxin

• Polytoxin

• Cyanotoxin

• Hemotoxin

How can polytoxin be dangerous to humans?

• When ingested, injected, or airborne

• Only when injected

• Only when ingested

• Only when touched

What can trigger Zoanthid corals to release polytoxin?

• Exposure to sunlight

• Being scrubbed or broken

• Lack of water

• High temperatures

Which of the following is NOT a symptom of inhaling polytoxin?

• Eye irritation

• High fever

• Muscle pain

• Skin rash

What symptoms might someone experience after breathing in polytoxin?

• Dizziness

• Nausea and vomiting

• Severe headache

• Flu-like symptoms