DEVIL REEF CRAB
The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources has reminded people that not all crabs are safe for human consumption after a content creator died from eating devil reef crab caught by her husband recently in Barangay Luzviminda, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan.
The victim was identified as Emma Amit.
She posted a video showing her eating the crab with companions that became viral.
One of her companions suffered discomfort after eating and was taken to a clinic and eventually recovered.
Amit also suffered discomfort was taken to a hospital where she passed away.
She was the third individual from their barangay who died from eating devil crab, officials said.
The BFAR said toxins inside devil reef crabs remain even when cooked or boiled.
The devil reef crab has brownish blotches on a paler background and harbors neurotoxins, namely tetrodotoxin and saxitoxin, within its flesh and shell.
The BFAR urged the public to familiarize themselves with the appearance of the crabs so they could accurately identify them.
“It is also important to exercise utmost caution and refrain from direct contact with these crabs, particularly their pincers. An individual might be in danger in handling these crabs without adequate protection, such as using thick gloves or tools that maintain a safe distance,” the BFAR said.