Palytoxin is a potent marine toxin generated by zoanthids of the genus Palythoa, soft corals found in tropical waters. It has been detected across various seafoods, including fish, crabs, and seaweeds, and can cause severe food poisoning or even death in people who eat contaminated products. In seafood safety, palytoxin is among the most acutely toxic natural compounds known, acting on cellular ion pumps. Outbreaks are linked to certain reef fish and contaminated shellfish in endemic regions. Monitoring, consumer advisories, and avoidance of high-risk species during blooms form the main defenses, since no antidote exists and cooking does not destroy the toxin.