A new study has revealed that there have been more cases of poisonings from a toxin carried by barracuda and other sport fish than previously thought. The study results have showed that the brunt is being faced by fishing communities around the world.

The highest number of poisoning cases in Florida was seen among Hispanics, possibly because of eating barracuda. Findings of the study have been published in The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene.

Algae that grow in warm water produce ciguatera and it is highly likely to spread north because of rise in temperatures of ocean water, said Elizabeth G. Radke, an epidemiologist at the University of Florida’s Emerging Pathogens Institute and the lead author of the study.

Coral reef fish pick up the poison by eating vegetation. Larger carnivorous fish get their share of the poison after eating coral reef fish that have already consumed the poison.

“We recommend not eating barracuda at all, it’s a good idea to be aware that you’re taking a risk. If you get ill, see a doctor, tell them you ate fish, and if you have some fish left, freeze it so it can be tested”, said Dr. Radke.

The toxin is not likely to be present in fish caught in colder northern waters, but the chances can’t be said to be zero as the fish migrate.

The most common symptom of the poison consumption is severe vomiting. Some people complain of caught in colder northern waters. Cases of poisonings were three times more common among Hispanics compared with other ethnic groups.