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Four red tides have been sighted in Hong Kong waters over the past week, an inter-departmental red tide working group reported today (February 27).
The first red tide was spotted by staff of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department at Cheung Chau Tung Wan Beach on February 22. The other three red tides were reported by staff of the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) at Hoi Ha Wan; Po Pin Chau, Sai Kung and Tolo Harbour to Three Fathoms Cove, including Yim Tin Tsai, Yim Tin Tsai East and Yung Shue Au fish culture zones on February 26.
The red tides at Po Pin Chau, Sai Kung and Tolo Harbour to Three Fathoms Cove still persist while the others have already dissipated. No associated death of fish has been reported in these occurrences so far.
"The red tide at Tolo Harbour to Three Fathoms Cove was formed by Heterocapsa circularisquama, while the others were formed by Noctiluca scintillans. Noctiluca scintillans is non-toxic. Heterocapsa circularisquama may cause shellfish mortality as reported in overseas studies, however the toxicity of the local strain is uncertain. They are commonly found in Hong Kong waters," a spokesman for the working group said.
The AFCD urged mariculturists at Kau Sai, Kai Lung Wan, Leung Shuen Wan, Tiu Cham Wan, Tai Tau Chau, Yim Tin Tsai, Yim Tin Tsai East, Yung Shue Au, Lo Fu Wat, Tap Mun, Kau Lau Wan, Sham Wan and Cheung Sha Wan fish culture zones 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 27, 2015
Issued at HKT 18:57
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