สำนักงานราชบัณฑิตยสภา

The Journal of the Royal Institute of Thailand Vol. 33 No. 1 Jan.-Mar. 2008 136 Abstract Tetrodotoxication Thosaporn Wongratana Fellow of the Academy of Science, The Royal Institute, Thailand Puffers are chiefly tropical and subtropical in their distributions and are among the most peculiar fish in their shapes, behaviors and human intoxications. Although it is recognized that the toxicity, tetrodotoxin, of puffers is influenced greatly by their reproductive cycle, the preceding observations have led some workers to believe that the food habits of the fish may also be a factor in the uptake or reproduction of the poison. The skin, liver, ovaries and intestines are the most toxic portions of the fish. The musculature of the fish is usually safer to eat than other parts of the fish, but at times even it may be toxic. It is a powerful neurotoxin that finally paralyses the respiratory system. Although it is against the law the puffer meat is occasionally shown up in local markets for innocent buyers. The press recently, July to September 2007, reported cases of poisonous effect of puffer meat to victims. Our public health aspects of this biotoxication are further complicated by the lack of adequate public health facilities in most of the localities where these fishes are found. Comparing to Japan the sale of puffers is governed largely by public health or police regulations within the individual prefectures rather than the central government. Eventhough there still cases of puffer poisoning in this country. Key words : puffers, behavior, biogenesis, tetrodotoxin, intoxication §«“¡‡ªì πæ‘ …®“°ª≈“ªí °‡ªÑ “