Red tides sighted
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The first red tide was spotted by staff of the Marine Department at Victoria Harbour from North Point Ferry Pier to Heng Fa Chuen on May 9. The second red tide was spotted by staff of the Environmental Protection Department in waters off New Yau Ma Tei Typhoon Shelter on May 10. Both red tides have dissipated and no associated fish deaths have been reported as at today.
A spokesman for the working group said, "Both red tides were formed by Guinardia delicatula, which is common in Hong Kong waters and non-toxic."
The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) urged mariculturists at the fish culture zones of Tung Lung Chau, Po Toi and Ma Wan 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, May 14, 2021
Issued at HKT 17:23
Issued at HKT 17:23
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