*****************
Red tides have been sighted in Hong Kong waters over the past week, an inter-departmental red tide working group reported today (April 19).
A mariculturist observed a red tide at Yung Shue Au fish culture zone on April 12. On April 16 and 17, Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) staff sighted red tides at Wong Chuk Kok Hoi, Wong Wan fish culture zone and Sham Wan fish culture zone.
The red tides still persist. No associated death of fish has been reported by mariculturists so far.
"The red tides were formed by Neoceratium furca, which is common in Hong Kong waters and non-toxic," a spokesman for the working group said.
The AFCD urged mariculturists at Yim Tin Tsai, Yim Tin Tsai East, Yung Shue Au, Lo Fu Wat, Sha Tau Kok, Ap Chau, Kat O, O Pui Tong, Sai Lau Kong, Tap Mun, Kau Lau Wan, Sham Wan and Wong Wan 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, April 19, 2013
Issued at HKT 16:02
NNNN
