Warning About Palytoxin Poisoning in Zoanthids and Palythoas!

If this has been posted here before I couldn't find it but more stories of this are popping up lately. I'm probably one of the worst about handling zoanthids or palys in the tank without much caution. After seeing these stories pop up recently I need to take a few precautions before handling zoas or palys. I know I've sold or given away several zoa and paly frags and never said a word to anyone about handling them.

1. Rubber gloves
2. Face/eye/mouth protection
3. DON'T BOIL ROCK TO KILL PALYS!

Steamed Palythoas send well-informed aquarist to the emergency room, nearly to the grave

Palytoxin poisoning in the eye

be careful cutting palys!!

Seems to be some debate on how toxic they are or that some are more toxic than others. I don't want to taste them to find out.

lol, never did any of this either I always wash hands before and after I mess with the tank but never took these protections. Just like the sting from anemones they haven't bothered me other than a little redness but some are very susceptible to the toxins they release. Also the toxin released from a Stressed Sea Apple can kill any tank not sure on effect to humans though. Is there a toxin webpage somewhere to warn about others?

Seems that out of water contact is what causes the problems.

I believe there's one particular Hawaiian species ( used on spear points back in the day ) that has severe neuro-toxic properties.

Can't be too careful though. You never know if you might be the one fatally allergic to something. I read a story about someone fragging a 'shroom when it spit ( they really do ) into his eye and he almost lost sight .

I never had anything affect me except for the Texas Trash I got from Tony which gave my fingers quite a tingle but 'tis better to err on the side of caution. Wear gloves / eye protection and for goodness' sake don't lick your Palys.