Tetrodotoxin and its analogue 6-epitetrodotoxin in newts (Triturus spp.; Urodela, Salamandridae) from southern Germany

Tetrodotoxin (TTX) and its analogue 6-epitetrodotoxin (6-epiTTX) were quantitatively assayed in 59 newts representing four Triturus species (Triturus alpestris, Triturus cristatus, Triturus helveticus, Triturus vulgaris) from southern Germany by a post-column fluorescent-HPLC system. Both toxins were detected in only 15 specimens of the four species. The toxins levels varied considerably among individuals (TTX: 0.11–9.0 μg/g; 6-epiTTX: 0.05–17.0 μg/g). 6-epiTTX was found to be the major component.