Press Releases

Nine red tides have been sighted in Hong Kong waters over the past week, an inter-departmental red tide working group reported today (February 19). The red tide in the waters of Tolo Harbour to Long Harbour formed mainly by Karenia mikimotoi earlier has dissipated. 

On February 13, two red tides were sighted at Wong Chuk Kok Hoi to O Pui Tong (including Wong Wan and O Pui Tong fish culture zones), and Tai Tam Wan. 

On February 14, four red tides were observed. The locations are Rocky Harbour (including Leung Shuen Wan fish culture zone), Starling Inlet to Double Haven (including Sha Tau Kok, Ap Chau and Kat O fish culture zones), Deep Water Bay Beach and Deep Water Bay.

Another red tide was sighted at Tathong Channel to Lei Yue Mun (including Tung Lung Chau fish culture zone) yesterday (February 18), and two more were reported at Long Harbour and Port Shelter today.

The red tide in Deep Water Bay Beach has dissipated while the other eight red tides still persist. No associated death of fish has been reported. 

A spokesman for the working group said, "The red tide newly reported at Long Harbour was formed by Noctiluca scintillans and Dictyocha speculum while those at Tathong Channel to Lei Yue Mun and Port Shelter were formed by Akashiwo sanguinea, Noctiluca scintillans and Dictyocha speculum. The red tides at the other locations were formed by Akashiwo sanguinea.  Akashiwo sanguinea and Noctiluca scintillans are commonly found in Hong Kong waters, and Dictyocha speculum is less common. All species are non-toxic."

The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) has stepped up monitoring of the fish culture zones throughout Hong Kong. Mariculturists have been reminded 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.

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