MANILA, Philippines — Authorities and marine experts are warning the public against consuming a highly toxic species of crab known as the “Devil Crab” (Zosimus aeneus), following reports that a vlogger died after allegedly eating the poisonous marine animal.
One of the World’s Most Toxic Crabs
The Zosimus aeneus, also called the toxic reef crab, is considered among the most poisonous crabs in the world. Found in tropical waters and coral reefs across the Philippines and the Indo-Pacific, it poses a serious risk to human health.
Marine scientists stress that the Devil Crab is not safe for consumption. Its meat and shell contain potent neurotoxins such as tetrodotoxin and saxitoxin—the same deadly substances linked to pufferfish poisoning and red tide. Experts emphasize that cooking, boiling, or grilling does not neutralize these toxins.
“These toxins attack the nervous system and can cause paralysis, respiratory failure, and even death,” marine biologists warned.
Symptoms of Poisoning
Ingesting even a small amount of Devil Crab can trigger severe symptoms within minutes to hours, including:
– Numbness of the lips and tongue
– Muscle weakness or paralysis
– Difficulty breathing
– Dizziness and loss of coordination
In extreme cases, poisoning may lead to cardiac arrest and death if not treated immediately.
Identifying the Devil Crab
The species can be recognized by:
– A brown or reddish shell with white or bluish mosaic-like patterns
– A cracked marble or net-like design on its body
– Small size, typically 6 to 9 centimeters wide
– Habitat in coral reefs or shallow rocky areas
Its striking appearance often leads people to mistake it for an edible reef crab.
Public Warning
Philippine authorities and environmental groups continue to warn fishermen, divers, and coastal communities not to catch, sell, or eat this species. Several poisoning cases, including fatal incidents, have already been documented locally and abroad.
Marine experts stress that no home remedy or cooking method can make the Devil Crab safe to eat.
“This is not just a rare species—it is a deadly one. Public awareness is critical to prevent further loss of life,” they said.
For Awareness Only
The tragic case of the vlogger serves as a reminder that not all seafood is safe, and that proper knowledge of marine species is essential in a country rich in coastal resources like the Philippines.
Authorities urge the public to seek immediate medical help if poisoning is suspected and to report sightings of the Devil Crab to local environmental offices. #PLMG
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