(Yicai Global) Sept. 10 -- China's mainland stock markets fell into negative territory in the afternoon with two major stock benchmarks plunging past their lowest points in more than two months as bargain-hunting waned particularly in the growth stocks space.

More than 300 growth stocks closed down 10 percent or more today. The ChiNext Price Index, which tracks growth enterprises listed in Shenzhen, moved 1.60 percent down to 2,483.03, the lowest finishing level since July 3.

Shanghai's Nasdaq-like Star Market 50 Index, or Star 50, slid 1.38 percent lower to 1,280.19, the weakest level for the end of afternoon trading since June 15.

The Shanghai Composite Index, heavy with large caps, was down 0.61 percent at 3,234.82. The Shenzhen Component Index declined 0.92 percent to 12,742.85.

Editor: Emmi Laine