Red Tide Begins in March

by Maureen Dietrich
5 Mar 15
mazmessenger.com

The season for red tide (marea roja) in Mazatlán has already begun with sightings of the microalgae concentrated in the waters off El Faro lighthouse hill.

Investigator Roberto Cortez commented that the marine phenomenon can be seen in waters off Mazatlán shores during the month of March into early April and again in October.

It is a natural occurrence, he stated, and presents no risks. Most of the microalgae are beneficial to marine life, he said, but there are some species that contain toxins. If clams, mussels or other bivalves absorb the toxins and the shell fish are sold commercially, it could affect the consumer but it would depend on many conditions, he added.

(from Noroeste)

 

Scientists Want Moratorium on Oyster Fishing During Red Tide

by Maureen Dietrich

26 Mar 14 

mazmessenger.com

 

The presence of red tide in the Bahía de Mazatlán was detected on March 19.

Personnel working at the environmental studies laboratory of the Faculty of Ocean Sciences of the Universidad Autónoma de Sinaloa have asked health authorities to declare a ban on selling oysters during red tide.

Gildardo Izaguirre Fierro, professor and biologist at the University, said in a communiqué that as of March 26 red tide conditions have been in Mazatlán seven days and it is urgent that health officials take the necessary steps to prevent risks to public health such as banning the sale and consumption of oysters.

He said this is the time when the micro-organism reproduces rapidly presenting a risk to the consumer.

The presence of red tide in the Bahía de Mazatlán was detected on March 19, the distinctive red coloured sea spreading from El Faro Lighthouse Hill to Playa Norte.

There are two micro-organisms producing red tide, the professor said. The first can cause the death of fish while the second is toxic for humans.

Consumers who eat toxic oysters could experience gastrointestinal, neurological and respiratory problems with symptoms such as numbing of lips and fingers, and a pins and needles and burning sensation on their body. If intoxication is grave due to age or weight of the person and the quantity of seafood consumed, death can result from respiratory paralysis, the biologist warned.

Interviewed by reporters, owners of restaurants selling oysters said they are aware of the red tide conditions and do not offer oysters during this time to protect the consumer and their reputations. 

 (from Noroeste)