Definition

A strong poison made by certain tiny ocean plants that can build up in shellfish, causing illness in people who eat them.

Example

Eating shellfish contaminated with saxitoxin can lead to serious health issues.

Conversation

Did you hear about the shellfish poisoning incident last week?

Yeah, they said it was caused by saxitoxin in the clams.

That's really scary; I've always loved eating shellfish.

Me too, but now I think I'll be more careful about where I get them.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Saxitoxin** → The word is derived from the Latin "saxum" (meaning rock) and the Greek "toxikon" (meaning poison). It refers to a toxin that is produced by certain marine organisms, often found in association with rocky environments.

Memory Tip

Think of 'rock' ('saxum') where this toxin is often found, combined with 'poison' ('toxikon') to remember that saxitoxin is a poison associated with rocky marine habitats.

Visually Confused Words