Final answer:
Shellfish generally contain about 15-25% protein, making them a valuable dietary protein source. However, there are risks associated with eating mollusks during red tides due to potential toxin accumulation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Shellfish are a source of nutritious protein. The amount of protein in shellfish can vary, but they generally contain about 15-25% protein by weight. This makes them an excellent food choice for people looking to increase their protein intake. Furthermore, fisheries such as those in Europe, Japan, and the US, produce significant quantities of shellfish like oysters, contributing to the high consumption of these marine delicacies.
It's important to note that while shellfish are a healthy addition to many diets, they can also be a source of food poisoning if not properly regulated or consumed at the wrong time. Warmer months can pose a risk of red tide, an algal bloom that leads to the accumulation of toxins in mollusks, potentially causing serious illness or death if the contaminated shellfish are consumed. Therefore, safety measures and regulations are crucial to ensure the safe consumption of these marine products.