Google map of Barobo town, Surigao del Sur.
BUTUAN CITY – Residents of Barobo town in Surigao del Sur are warned from gathering and consuming shellfish following the issuance of a local red tide warning on Sunday by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources in the Caraga Region (BFAR-13).
In a statement Tuesday, the provincial government said laboratory examination by BFAR-13 confirmed the increase in the number of Pyrodinium bahamense var compressum on seashells in the area.
Pyrodinium bahamense var compressum is a toxic microorganism that can cause paralytic shellfish poison (PSP).
In particular, the provincial government urged the residents to refrain from selling and eating all types of shellfish and Acetes sp., also known as “alamang” or tiny shrimps, in the areas of Lianga Bay, which includes the coastlines and the waters off Barobo.
“The BFAR-13 and the provincial government, including the local government units concerned, will continuously monitor the specified areas to prioritize public health and protect the shellfish industry,” it said.
The BFAR-13, however, said fish squid, crabs and big shrimps gathered from the area are still safe for human consumption provided that all entrails are removed and washed thoroughly with running water. (PNA)
