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Three red tides have been sighted in Hong Kong waters in the past few days, an inter-departmental red tide working group reported today (November 10).
The red tide at Sha Tin Hoi reported by Marine Police on November 6 dissipated on November 8.
The red tide at Shing Mun River seen by staff of the Environmental Protection Department on November 7 dissipated yesterday.
Another occurrence, which still persists, was seen on November 8 by staff of the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) at Tolo Harbour.
"The three red tides were formed by Ceratium furca. Red tide formed by this specie is common in Hong Kong waters and it is non-toxic," a spokesman for the working group said.
The AFCD has urged mariculturists at Yim Tin Tsai, Yim Tin Tsai East, Yung Shue O and Lo Fu Wat 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, November 10, 2006
Issued at HKT 16:35
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