Red tides sighted
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On May 30, staff of the Environmental Protection Department spotted the first red tide at Deep Water Bay Beach, Hong Kong Island. On May 31, staff of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department spotted another red tide at Repulse Bay Beach, Hong Kong Island. Both red tides persist and no associated fish deaths have been reported as of today.
A spokesman for the working group said, "Both red tides were formed by Phaeocystis globosa, which is commonly found in Hong Kong waters. According to literature overseas, the algal species can produce foam that may affect fish."
The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) urged mariculturists at Lo Tik Wan, Sok Kwu Wan, Cheung Sha 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 to monitor red tide occurrences to minimise the impact on the mariculture industry and the public.
Ends/Friday, June 2, 2023
Issued at HKT 15:00
Issued at HKT 15:00
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