Apr
4
Mussel platform in Vigo estuary, Galicia. (Photo: Xelo2004 CC BY-SA 3.0)
Galicia closes 80pc of the mussel platforms due to red tide
SPAIN
Friday, April 05, 2013, 05:00 (GMT + 9)
A ban has been set on mussel capture by the Department of Rural and Marine Affairs of Xunta de Galicia due to the phenomenon called red tide, which has been found in local waters.
Out of the 53 mussel platform polygons, 42 were closed due to high toxicity levels caused by lipophilic bacteria found by experts from the Technological Institute for the Control of the Marine Environment of Galicia (Intecmar).
The scientists detected toxicity levels above those set for the capture affecting bivalve molluscs that are farmed in floating nurseries, ABC reported.
At present, two mussel platform polygons remain open in Sada, five in A Pobra do Caramiñal, two in Vilagarcía, one in Cambados and another one in Corme.
The red tide also affects the four polygons designed for oyster farming.
According to Intecmar director general, Covadonga Salgado, this red tide was “very fast.”
“It seems to be a strong episode that can last longer,” stated Salgado.
Lipophilic toxins are “our daily bread,” continued saying Intecmar director, as the newspaper La Voz de Galicia reported.
According to the chairman of Aspromeri producers’ group, Ramón Iglesias, the situation still has not hit them much, but he anticipated that if the red tide continues, “in 15 days the market supplies could be limited.”
By Analia Murias
editorial@fis.com
www.fis.com
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