expert consultation held in 2004 classified the phycotoxins into eight groups based on their chemical structure. Of these, six groups, namely the brevetoxin (BTXlipophilic phycotoxins (LPs) because of similarities in the structure of their lipid-soluble cyclic polyether compounds. LPs accumulate in shellfish and persist longer than other phycotoxins. In the European Union, much attention is being paid to legislation with an emphasis on the detection method, maximum residue limit and basic assessment. Almost all LPs have been identified in Chinese shellfish, which will surely bring challenges to the human health and trade barrier. In the present paper, we reviewed recent studies on the chemical characteristics, origin, toxicity, detection methods, supervision and legislation of LPs, to provide a reference for our country to carry out research and formulate measures.