Prevalence and persistence of gymnodimines in clams from the Gulf of Gabes (Tunisia) studied by mouse bioassay and LC–MS/MS

In this work we studied the toxicity in clams from the Gulf of Gabes, Tunisia (Southern Mediterranean). Samples from two stations (M2 and S6) were collected monthly from January 2009 to September 2010, and analyzed by the official control method of mousse bioassay (MBA) for lipophilic toxins. All samples were also analyzed with the LC–MS/MS method for the determination of lipophilic toxins, namely: okadaic acid group, pectenotoxins, yessotoxins and azaspiracids, spirolides and gymnodimines (GYMs). The results showed prevalence of GYMs since it was the only toxin group identified in these samples with a maximum of 2136 μg GYM-A kg−1 (February 2009 at M2). Furthermore, GYMs showed persistence in the area, with only one blank sample below the limit of detection. Interestingly, this blank sample was found in June 2009 after an important toxic episode which supports the recent findings regarding the high detoxification capability of clams, much faster than that reported for oysters. In comparison, good agreement was found among MBA, the LD50 value of 80–100 μg kg−1 reported for GYM-A, and quantitative results provided by LC–MS/MS. On the contrary to that previously reported for Tunisian clams, we unambiguously identified and quantified by LC–MS/MS the isomers GYM-B/C in most samples. Phytoplankton identification and enumeration of Karenia selliformis usually showed higher densities at site M2 than S6 as expected bearing in mind toxin results, although additional results would be required to improve the correlation between K. selliformis densities and quantitative results of toxins. The prevalence and persistence of GYMs in this area at high levels strongly encourages the evaluation of the chronic toxic effects of GYMs. This is especially important taking into account that relatively large quantities of GYMs can be released into the market due to the replacement of the official control method from mouse bioassay to the LC–MS/MS for lipophilic toxins (Regulation (EU) No. 15/2011), and the lack of regulation for this group of toxins.

► We studied the persistence and prevalence of gymnodimines in clams from the Gulf of Gabes, compared to other lipophilic toxins.
► We compare the levels of gymnodimines in shellfish with the abundance of K. selliformis in this area.
► We study fragmentation of gymnodimines and provide specific conditions for analysis with LC–MS/MS.
► With these data, we contribute to perform a proper risk assessment.
► We discuss about the necessity to establish regulation for GYMs.