NR-M-98-20E
SHELLFISH UPDATE
July 3, 1998
Halifax -- The Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) advises
the public that the harvesting of bi-valve molluscs, including oysters,
clams, mussels, scallops, quahogs and whelks, for recreational or commercial
purposes is prohibited until further notice in:
- all waters inside a line drawn from Pennant Point, Halifax County
to Sambro Island to the western boundary of Halifax Harbour. This area
includes Sambro and Ketch Harbour.
This closure is due to an increase in levels of Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning
(PSP).
PSP results from eating shellfish that contain toxins. These toxins
are derived from planktonic organisms called dinoflagellates. Shellfish
are filter feeders that ingest and accumulate these toxic dinoflagellates
in their system. When the right conditions are present (water temperature,
salinity, weather patterns, nutrient requirements, etc.), levels of concentration
can increase. As these rises are unpredictable, detailed control measures
must be put into place to ensure that the health and safety of the public
is protected.
For additional information on shellfish closures in your area, please
contact your local Fishery Officer, as listed in the telephone directory,
or contact (902) 426-1781 in Halifax.
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For more information:
David Jennings
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Communications Branch
Maritimes Region
Halifax, Nova Scotia
(902) 426-3555
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