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The red tides sighted in the waters of Tolo Harbour to Long Harbour still persist, an inter-departmental red tide working group reported today (February 5). Reports of fish loss have been received.
Another red tide was sighted by a mariculturist today in the waters southeast of Kau Sai Chau including Kau Sai fish culture zone. The red tide still persists and no report of associated fish loss has been received.
A spokesman for the working group said, "The red tides at Tolo Harbour to Long Harbour were formed mainly by Karenia mikimotoi. A low density of Karenia papilionacea was also observed. Overseas studies suggest that Karenia mikimotoi, which seldom forms red tide in Hong Kong waters, might cause adverse effects to fish.
"The red tide in the waters southeast of Kau Sai Chau was formed by Akashiwo sanguinea, which is non-toxic and commonly found in Hong Kong waters."
The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) has stepped up monitoring of the fish culture zones throughout Hong Kong. Mariculturists have been reminded to monitor the situation closely and properly dispose of dead fish.
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 5, 2016
Issued at HKT 18:52
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