Red tide sighted
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The red tide was reported by staff of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department at Deep Water Bay Beach, Hong Kong Island, on May 6. The red flag was hoisted immediately.
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 Akashiwo sanguinea and Prorocentrum rhathymum. Akashiwo sanguinea is commonly found in Hong Kong waters and non-toxic, whereas Prorocentrum rhathymum is less common and overseas studies suggest that this species is capable of producing haemolytic and fast-acting toxin."
The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) urged mariculturists at Lo Tik Wan, Sok Kwu Wan and Po Toi 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, May 12, 2017
Issued at HKT 16:01
Issued at HKT 16:01
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