THE Sabah Fisheries Department (SFD) has advised the public not to consume shellfish from Kota Kinabalu and Tuaran waters after a red tide was detected near Pulau Sepanggar on Friday, which could last up to a week.

SFD director Azhar Kassim said the Biosecurity Department found that pyrodinium bahamense and margafidinium polykrikoides cells in a one-litre sample exceeded danger levels.

“The cells spread fast and have reached Sutera Harbour, Jesselton Jetty, Likas Bay, and Gaya Islands, with the highest readings near the Sabah International Convention Centre,” he said when contacted today.

A red tide comprises harmful algae blooms that can cause mass mortalities of marine life and lead to human intoxication or even death.

Azhar said more than 2,000 margalefidinium polykrikoides cells in a litre poses danger to fish, as the algae can latch onto their gills and suffocate them.

“It’s the pyrodinium bahamense that is dangerous when it exceeds 800 cells per litre. 

“They can live inside shellfish and cause severe food poisoning. Symptoms include headache, nausea and excruciating stomach pain,” he said, adding that those who have ingested shellfish and are experiencing these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention. – Bernama, February 19, 2023.