Red tide warning up in areas of Surigao del Sur

BUTUAN CITY – The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resource (BFAR) issued a ban, Saturday, on the consumption of shellfish coming from Lianga Bay in Surigao del Sur after the water from the bay’s coastal area was found positive for the “red tide toxin.”

Under its Shellfish Bulletin No. 41, BFAR made the announcement based on its latest laboratory results.

The waters of Lianga Bay specifically cover the towns of San Agustin and Marihatag.

The towns of Lianga and neighboring town of Barobo have also been placed on the warning list by the BFAR.

In its advisory, BFAR cautioned residents to first ask about the origin of the shellfish they are buying.

The red tide warning pointed out that all types of shellfish and Acetes specie, or commonly known as “alamang,” which were gathered from the affected areas are not safe for human consumption.

In other areas in that province, BFAR also advised residents not to eat anything raw while the warning was still in effect.

“Fish, squid, shrimps and crabs are safe for eating as long as it is properly cooked, they should be fresh and washed thoroughly and the internal organs such as gills and intestines should be properly removed before cooking,” said Surigao del Sur Provincial Fisheries and Aquatic Resource Officer Benesita P. Rojas, in a statement.

Red tides are caused by an explosive growth and accumulation of certain microscopic algae, predominantly dinoflagellates, in coastal waters.

Some species of dinoflagellates produce toxins that are among the most potent known to man.