Red tide sighted
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The red tide was reported by staff of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department at Silverstrand Beach in Sai Kung on March 18.
The red tide has dissipated and no associated death of fish has been reported.
A spokesman for the working group said, "The red tide was formed by Noctiluca scintillans, which is non-toxic and commonly found in Hong Kong waters."
The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) urged mariculturists at Ma Nam Wat, Kau Sai, Kai Lung Wan, Tai Tau Chau, Leung Shuen Wan, Tiu Cham Wan, Tung Lung Chau and Po Toi O fish culture zones to monitor the situation closely and increase aeration where necessary.
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, March 24, 2017
Issued at HKT 16:01
Issued at HKT 16:01
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