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Three red tide occurrences had been sighted in Hong Kong waters over the past few days, an inter-departmental red tide working group reported today (February 16).
The first occurrence at Ma Wan reported by mariculturists on February 12 dissipated the following day. Two other occurrences at Tuen Mun Nim Wan and East Lamma Channel were reported by Environmental Protection Department staff and mariculturists respectively on February 14. The former has dissipated today while the latter still persists.
"All three red tides were formed by Noctiluca scintillans, which is common in Hong Kong waters and non-toxic," a spokesman for the working group said.
The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department has urged mariculturists at Ma Wan, Lo Tik Wan and Sok Kwu Wan Fish Culture Zones to monitor the situation closely.
Red tide is a natural phenomenon. The department'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 16, 2007
Issued at HKT 16:16
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