Red tide sighted
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The red tide was spotted by staff of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department on May 2 at Silver Mine Bay Beach, Lantau Island. The red tide has dissipated. No associated death of fish has been reported.
A spokesman for the working group said, "The red tide was formed by Heterosigma akashiwo, which is commonly found in Hong Kong waters. According to literature overseas, the algal species can produce neurotoxins and kill fish by damaging their gills."
The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) urged mariculturists at Lo Tik Wan, Sok Kwu Wan, Ma Wan and Cheung Sha Wan 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, May 9, 2025
Issued at HKT 14:55
Issued at HKT 14:55
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