The Health Directorate in the Dakahlia Governorate of Egypt has warned citizens about consuming a poisonous fish that is spreading in the markets, known as the "Rabbit Fish." The statement from the Health Directorate describes this fish as one of the most dangerous in the world due to its lethal toxin, as it feeds on toxic algae.
The statement noted that this fish is also known as "Fugu" or "Pufferfish" and is consumed in Japan where it is handled with extreme caution because it contains deadly poisons. It was mentioned that this species of fish has arrived from the Indian Ocean through the Red Sea and the Suez Canal to the Mediterranean Sea, before spreading in it. Furthermore, there is no antidote for the poisoning that results from consuming the fish, and the symptoms of poisoning in humans vary from person to person, depending on the strength of the immune system or the amount of toxin ingested.
The poisonous Rabbit Fish is recognized by its gray skin, reaching a length of up to 53 cm, with dark eyes and containing toxic glands beneath its skin, as well as in its internal organs, marrow, liver, and flesh. Symptoms of poisoning can begin within 20 minutes to an hour, and its toxin can cause death within 6 to 8 hours. Symptoms of poisoning include difficulty breathing, muscle paralysis, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and a decrease in heart rate.
