Shake up for toxic tests

Tasmania's health department is to review its shellfish tests, after inspectors missed a toxin that was detected overseas.

Japanese authorities identified the paralytic shellfish toxin earlier this month in Tasmanian mussels approved for export.

The discovery prompted a recall of east coast mussels and the suspension of scallop harvesting.

Harvesting at some oyster farms was also stopped and a ban placed on recreational fishing of rock lobster and abalone.

The department's Stuart Heggie says the algal bloom responsible for the toxin is unusual.

"This particular bloom, because it's uncharacteristic wasn't really factored in because it wouldn't normally be there," he said.

Mr Heggie says the Japanese discovery has prompted a review of testing procedures.

"We're going to have to review the existing monitoring regime that we currently have."

The species of algae will be added to the standard screening list.

It is not known when the fisheries will reopen.

Source: ABC News, 29 November 2012