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Three red tide occurrences have been sighted in Hong Kong waters over the past few days, an inter-departmental red tide working group reported today (January 22).
The first occurrence in the area of Ma Shi Chau to Lo Fu Wat was reported by a member of the public on January 17. Separately, Environmental Protection Department staff observed a red tide at Shing Mun River on January 20 and Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) staff observed another at Yan Chau Tong yesterday.
All three occurrences still persist and no associated death of fish was reported.
"The 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.
AFCD has urged mariculturists at Yim Tin Tsai, Yim Tin Tsai (East), Lo Fu Wat, Yung Shue Au, Sha Tau Kok, Ap Chau, Kat O, O Pui Tong and Sai Lau Kong 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, January 22, 2010
Issued at HKT 16:01
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