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Red tides have been sighted in Hong Kong waters over the past week, an inter-departmental red tide working group reported today (February 18).
The first occurrence, from Leung Shuen Wan Hoi to Tai Tau Chau Fish Culture zone, was reported by a mariculturist at Leung Shuen Wan on February 16.
Separately, Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) staff observed a red tide at Silverstrand Beach yesterday. A red flag was hoisted at the beach immediately. Two more occurrences were reported by staff of the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) on the same day at Yan Chau Tong and Hoi Ha Wan Marine Parks respectively.
These red tides still persist but no associated death of fish has been reported so far.
"The red tide observed on February 16 was formed by Akashiwo sanguinea while the others were formed by Noctiluca scintillans. Both species are common in Hong Kong waters and are non-toxic," a spokesman for the working group said.
The AFCD has urged mariculturists at Leung Shuen Wan, Tai Tau Chau, Kai Lung Wan, Kau Sai, Ma Nam Wat, Po Toi O, Sha Tau Kok, Ap Chau, Kat O, O Pui Tong, Sai Lau Kong, Tap Mun, Kau Lau Wan and Sham Wan to monitor the situation closely.
Red tide is a natural phenomenon. The AFCD's proactive phytoplankton monitoring programme will continue monitoring red tide occurrences to minimise the impact on the mariculture industry and the public.
Ends/Friday, February 18, 2011
Issued at HKT 14:53
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