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Mokos M, Rokov T, Zubak Čižmek I. Monitoring and analysis of marine litter in Vodenjak cove on Iž Island, central Croatian Adriatic Sea. RENDICONTI LINCEI-SCIENZE FISICHE E NATURALI 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s12210-020-00934-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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52
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Jeyasanta KI, Sathish N, Patterson J, Edward JKP. Macro-, meso- and microplastic debris in the beaches of Tuticorin district, Southeast coast of India. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2020; 154:111055. [PMID: 32174503 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2020.111055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
This study investigates the mean concentration and characteristics of macroplastics (>2.5 cm), mesoplastics (5 mm - 2.5 cm) and microplastics (<5 mm) on eight sandy beaches along the shoreline of Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu. Prevalence of plastic litters varies among the study sites depending on the intensity of fishing and other human activities. Mean concentrations of macroplastics (1.38 ± 78 to 6.16 ± 94 items/m2), mesoplastics (2 ± 0.8 to 17 ± 0.11 items/m2) and microplastics (25 ± 1.58 to 83 ± 49 items/m2) were estimated in respect of the polymers composing them namely PE, PP, PET, NY, PS and PVC, of which PE is the most predominant polymer. At Sites 1, 2, 3, 5 and 8 there is correlation between the intensity of fishing activity and the concentrations of macro- (p = 0.02) and microplastics (p = 0.03). Sites 4, 6 and 7 there is correlation established between the degree of recreational activity and the concentrations of meso- (p = 0.02) and microplastics (p = 0.01).
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Affiliation(s)
- K Immaculate Jeyasanta
- Suganthi Devadason Marine Research Institute, Tuticorin, Affiliated to Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Tirunelveli, India.
| | - Narmatha Sathish
- Suganthi Devadason Marine Research Institute, Tuticorin, Affiliated to Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Tirunelveli, India
| | - Jamila Patterson
- Suganthi Devadason Marine Research Institute, Tuticorin, Affiliated to Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Tirunelveli, India
| | - J K Patterson Edward
- Suganthi Devadason Marine Research Institute, Tuticorin, Affiliated to Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Tirunelveli, India
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53
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Renzi M, Blašković A. Chemical fingerprint of plastic litter in sediments and holothurians from Croatia: Assessment & relation to different environmental factors. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2020; 153:110994. [PMID: 32275543 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2020.110994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2019] [Revised: 02/15/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
This paper increases knowledge on litter transfer from sediments towards the trophic web throughout sea cucumbers, key protected benthic species. In October, sediment and holothurian samples from seventeen sampling sites from Croatian Islands characterized by different levels of protection (Silba n = 7; Telašćica MPA n = 10) were collected. Collected particles ranged in sediments within 113.4-377.8 items/kg d.w., and in holothurians within 0.6-9.4 items/animal, showing sizes within 1.4-10,493 μm. In holothurians, cellulose and cellulose acetate (non-synthetic materials) mean percentages were within 5.0-12.7% of the total amount of particles. Nylon fibres ranged within 0-26.7%; while PP, PE, PA, and PS% were more abundant than in sediments. Among factors of variability tested, "island group" and "level of protection" resulted to affect plastic composition in sediments. Otherwise, other environmental factors (i.e. orientation, morphology of sampling site, P. oceanica) were significantly related to chemical composition of microplastic ingested by holothurians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monia Renzi
- Bioscience Research Center, Via Aurelia Vecchia, 32, 58015 Orbetello, GR, Italy; Department of Life science, University of Trieste, Via Licio Giorgieri, 5, 34127 Trieste, TS, Italy.
| | - Andrea Blašković
- Bioscience Research Center, Via Aurelia Vecchia, 32, 58015 Orbetello, GR, Italy; Marine Explorers Society - 20000 Leagues, Put Bokanjca 26A; 23000 Zadar, Croatia
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Mistri M, Scoponi M, Granata T, Moruzzi L, Massara F, Munari C. Types, occurrence and distribution of microplastics in sediments from the northern Tyrrhenian Sea. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2020; 153:111016. [PMID: 32275562 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2020.111016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
This is the first survey to investigate microplastic contamination in the Northern Tyrrhenian seafloor, along a 31 km-long transect from the port of Piombino (Tuscany) to the port of Portoferraio (Elba Island). Plastics extracted from 58 sediment samples were counted and identified by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Plastic pollution occurred in sites closer to ports as well as in offshore stations. Microplastics (1-5 mm) accounted for over 80% of particles. For all samples, the dominant microplastic type was filaments, followed by fragments and films. Six polymers were identified: nylon, polyurethane, polyethylene, and polyethylene terephtalate were the most common. This part of the Tyrrhenian Sea is a busy shipping route connecting the mainland to the Elba Island, with thousands cargo and passenger ships passing by per year. Our data constitute a baseline for microplastic research in the Tyrrhenian seafloor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Mistri
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 17, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Marco Scoponi
- Advanced Polymer Materials, Via G. Saragat 9, 44122 Ferrara, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Cristina Munari
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 17, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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55
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Li R, Yu L, Chai M, Wu H, Zhu X. The distribution, characteristics and ecological risks of microplastics in the mangroves of Southern China. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 708:135025. [PMID: 31787304 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.135025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2019] [Revised: 10/11/2019] [Accepted: 10/15/2019] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
During the production, use and disposal of plastic products, microplastics (MPs) are dispersed into the surrounding environment and have inevitable impacts on mangrove ecosystems in estuaries and offshore areas. In the mangroves of Southern China, the systematic evaluation of the distribution, characteristics and ecological risks of MPs is lacking. In this study, surface sediments (0-5 cm depth) were collected from six representative mangroves in China to explore MP contamination and its associated ecological risk. Based on the results, MP concentrations of MPs in mangrove sediments were as follows: FT (2249 ± 747 items/kg), ZJ (736 ± 269 items/kg), DF (649 ± 443 items/kg), DZG (431 ± 170 items/kg), YX (424 ± 127 items/kg), and FCG (227 ± 173 items/kg). The higher MP concentration in the Futian mangrove was mainly related to inputs from the Pearl River, the third largest river in China. The predominant shape, colour, and size of MPs were fibrous, white-transparent, and 500-5000 μm, respectively. The main MP polymer types were polypropylene, polyethylene, and polystyrene. Degradation artefacts were present on surface of MPs as well as metallic and non-metallic elements. MPs concentration in mangrove sediments increased with increasing social-economic development of surrounding districts, which indicated the clear influence of anthropogenic activity on MP pollution in these mangroves. Furthermore, total organic carbon (TOC) and silt content were positively associated with MPs (P < 0.01), indicating a facilitatory role in deposition of MPs in mangroves. Based on a comprehensive evaluation using the potential ecological risk factor (Ei), potential ecological risk (RI), polymer risk index (H) and pollution load index (PLI), MPs were found to present ecological risks in these mangroves, with the highest risk occurring in the Futian mangrove.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruili Li
- School of Environment and Energy, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, Guangdong, China.
| | - Lingyun Yu
- School of Environment and Energy, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, Guangdong, China
| | - Minwei Chai
- School of Environment and Energy, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, Guangdong, China
| | - Hailun Wu
- School of Environment and Energy, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaoshan Zhu
- Graduate School at Shenzhen, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, China
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56
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Wang Y, Zou X, Peng C, Qiao S, Wang T, Yu W, Khokiattiwong S, Kornkanitnan N. Occurrence and distribution of microplastics in surface sediments from the Gulf of Thailand. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2020; 152:110916. [PMID: 32479289 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2020.110916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2019] [Revised: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2020] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the distribution and characteristics of microplastics in surface sediments of the Gulf of Thailand (GoT), and discussed the correlation between sediment grain size and microplastic content. The results indicate the abundance of microplastics is 150.4 ± 86.2 pieces/kg dry weight, representing a medium microplastic pollution level compared to other sea areas. Small microplastics (0.5-1 mm) take up >70% of total microplastic numbers. Fibrous microplastics are the dominant component of microplastics. According to micro-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, rayon (37%) and polyester (PES: 16%) are the most typical polymer types found in sediments. The results imply that secondary microplastics are the dominant pollutant, while fibrous microplastics are mainly from municipal sewage discharge. We also find that inconspicuous correlation between grain size and microplastics, which is caused by the multi-sources and different flow field. This study deepens our understanding of the environmental risks posed by microplastics to marine ecosystems in the GoT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wang
- School of Geographic and Oceanographic Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Sedimentology and Environmental Geology, First Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Qingdao 266061, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of South China Sea Studies, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Xinqing Zou
- School of Geographic and Oceanographic Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of South China Sea Studies, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China; Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Coastal and Island Development, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China; Laboratory for Marine Geology, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266061, China.
| | - Cong Peng
- South China Sea Marine Survey and Technology Center, State Oceanic Administration, Guangzhou 510300, China
| | - Shuqing Qiao
- Key Laboratory of Marine Sedimentology and Environmental Geology, First Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Qingdao 266061, China; Laboratory for Marine Geology, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266061, China.
| | - Teng Wang
- College of Oceanography, Hohai University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Wenwen Yu
- Marine Fisheries Research Institute of Jiangsu Province, Nantong 226007, China
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57
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Marine Litter in Transitional Water Ecosystems: State of The Art Review Based on a Bibliometric Analysis. WATER 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/w12020612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Transitional water ecosystems (TWEs), despite their ecological and economic importance, are largely affected by human pressures that could be responsible for significant inputs of litter in the marine environment. Plastic input in coastal ponds, lagoons, river deltas and estuaries, could be driven by a wide range of human activities such as agriculture, waste disposal, municipal and industrial wastewater effluents, aquaculture, fishing and touristic activities and urban impacts. However, it remains unknown what the impact of plastic input in these TWEs could have on natural capital and, therefore, the ability for an ecosystem to provide goods and services to human beings. Given the large interest with regards to the conservation of transitional water ecosystems and the clear exposure risk to plastic and microplastic pollution, this study aims to perform: (i) a bibliometric analyses on existing literature regarding the levels of marine litter in such environments; (ii) a selection among the available literature of homogeneous data; and (iii) statistical analyses to explore data variability. Results suggest that: (i) research on microplastics in these ecosystems did not begin to be published until 2013 for lagoons, 2014 for river mouths and 2019 for coastal ponds. The majority of articles published on studies of microplastics in lagoons did not occur until 2019; (ii) sediments represent the matrix on which sampling and extraction variability allow the statistical analyses on data reported by the literature; (iii) the Analysis of Similarities (ANOSIM) test two-way evidenced that the level of protection of marine and terrestrial areas produced similar values while the habitat type showed low significance in terms of its effect on microplastic levels, shape and size in sediments.
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58
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Green BC, Johnson CLE. Characterisation of microplastic contamination in sediment of England's inshore waters. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2020; 151:110788. [PMID: 32056586 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2019.110788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2019] [Revised: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Plastic litter is an increasingly significant problem in the marine environment. Our study looks at a cost-effective method to quantify larger fractions of microplastics in marine sediments as an opportunistic addition to standard benthic infauna sampling. A subsample of microplastics (>1 mm) were enumerated and categorised from sediment samples collected as part of standard benthic habitat monitoring in twenty-two Marine Protected Areas across English inshore waters. Microplastic particles were found in 61.2% of the samples collected, with mean density per study site ranging from 0.2 in Dover to Deal MCZ to 42.7 in The Mersey Estuary Special Protection Area microplastic particles per 0.1 m2. High densities of plastic were found at remote sites, as well as those closer to urban or industrialised areas. Spatial protection measures such as MPAs are not themselves a suitable tool to tackle marine plastic pollution which should be addressed upstream at source.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin C Green
- Estuarine and Coastal Monitoring and Assessment Service, Environment Agency, Kingfisher House, Goldhay Way, Orton Goldhay, Peterborough PE2 5ZR, United Kingdom
| | - Charlotte L E Johnson
- Natural England, Suite D, Unex House, Bourges Boulevard, Peterborough PE1 1NG, United Kingdom.
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59
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Akdogan Z, Guven B. Microplastics in the environment: A critical review of current understanding and identification of future research needs. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2019; 254:113011. [PMID: 31404735 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2019.113011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 275] [Impact Index Per Article: 55.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Revised: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/02/2019] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (plastic particles <5 mm) are a contaminant of increasing ecotoxicological concern in aquatic environments, as well as for human health. Although microplastic pollution is widespread across the land, water, and air, these environments are commonly considered independently; however, in reality are closely linked. This study aims to review the scientific literature related microplastic research in different environmental compartments and to identify the research gaps for the assessment of future research priorities. Over 200 papers involving microplastic pollution, published between 2006 and 2018, are identified in the Web of Science database. The original research articles in 'Environmental Sciences', 'Marine/Freshwater Biology', 'Toxicology', 'Multidisciplinary Sciences', 'Environmental Studies', 'Oceanography', 'Limnology' and 'Ecology' categories of Web of Science are selected to investigate microplastic research in seas, estuaries, rivers, lakes, soil and atmosphere. The papers identified for seas, estuaries, rivers and lakes are further classified according to (i) occurrence and characterization (ii) uptake by and effects in organisms, and (iii) fate and transport issues. The results reveal that whilst marine microplastics have received substantial scientific research, the extent of microplastic pollution in continental environments, such as rivers, lakes, soil and air, and environmental interactions, remains poorly understood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeynep Akdogan
- Institute of Environmental Sciences, Boğaziçi University, 34342 Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Basak Guven
- Institute of Environmental Sciences, Boğaziçi University, 34342 Istanbul, Turkey.
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60
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Enders K, Käppler A, Biniasch O, Feldens P, Stollberg N, Lange X, Fischer D, Eichhorn KJ, Pollehne F, Oberbeckmann S, Labrenz M. Tracing microplastics in aquatic environments based on sediment analogies. Sci Rep 2019; 9:15207. [PMID: 31645581 PMCID: PMC6811616 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-50508-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2018] [Accepted: 09/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Microplastics (MP) data collection from the aquatic environment is a challenging endeavour that sets apparent limitations to regional and global MP quantification. Expensive data collection causes small sample sizes and oftentimes existing data sets are compared without accounting for natural variability due to hydrodynamic processes governing the distribution of particles. In Warnow estuarine sediments (Germany) we found significant correlations between high-density polymer size fractions (≥500 mm) and sediment grain size. Among potential predictor variables (source and environmental terms) sediment grain size was the critical proxy for MP abundance. The MP sediment relationship can be explained by the force necessary to start particle transport: at the same level of fluid motion, transported sediment grains and MP particles are offset in size by one to two orders of magnitude. Determining grain-size corrected MP abundances by fractionated granulometric normalisation is recommended as a basis for future MP projections and identification of sinks and sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Enders
- Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde (IOW), Seestraße 15, 18119, Rostock, DE, Germany
| | - Andrea Käppler
- Leibniz Institute for Polymer Research Dresden (IPF), Hohe Str. 6, 01069, Dresden, DE, Germany
| | - Oliver Biniasch
- Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde (IOW), Seestraße 15, 18119, Rostock, DE, Germany
| | - Peter Feldens
- Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde (IOW), Seestraße 15, 18119, Rostock, DE, Germany
| | - Nicole Stollberg
- Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde (IOW), Seestraße 15, 18119, Rostock, DE, Germany
| | - Xaver Lange
- Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde (IOW), Seestraße 15, 18119, Rostock, DE, Germany
| | - Dieter Fischer
- Leibniz Institute for Polymer Research Dresden (IPF), Hohe Str. 6, 01069, Dresden, DE, Germany
| | - Klaus-Jochen Eichhorn
- Leibniz Institute for Polymer Research Dresden (IPF), Hohe Str. 6, 01069, Dresden, DE, Germany
| | - Falk Pollehne
- Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde (IOW), Seestraße 15, 18119, Rostock, DE, Germany
| | - Sonja Oberbeckmann
- Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde (IOW), Seestraße 15, 18119, Rostock, DE, Germany
| | - Matthias Labrenz
- Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde (IOW), Seestraße 15, 18119, Rostock, DE, Germany.
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61
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Mokos M, Zamora Martinez I, Zubak I. Is central Croatian Adriatic Sea under plastic attack? Preliminary results of composition, abundance and sources of marine litter on three beaches. RENDICONTI LINCEI-SCIENZE FISICHE E NATURALI 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s12210-019-00851-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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62
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Microparticles in Table Salt: Levels and Chemical Composition of the Smallest Dimensional Fraction. JOURNAL OF MARINE SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/jmse7090310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
This study evaluates the chemical composition of microplastic materials (MPs) and non-synthetic particles in different table salts of marine origin by the µFT-IR technique. This research focuses on the microparticles fraction within 10–150 µm of size. Eleven commercial trademarks coming from Italy (IT = 6) and Croatia (CRO = 5) were grouped in two different cost ranges, cheap (n = 5) and expensive (n = 6) and were analysed in replicates (n = 3). Levels and chemical composition of microparticles measured in commercial products were correlated on a statistical basis to some factors of variability of potential scientific interest (geographical origin of marine salt, cost of commercial products, etc.). Results of analyses performed on the tested size fraction of microparticles (10–150 µm) evidence that: (i) levels of MPs are within 0.17–0.32 items/g (IT) and 0.07–0.20 items/g (CRO); (ii) non-synthetic particles detected are mostly made by fibres made of cellulose acetate; (iii) Nations show a different chemical composition of MPs recovered in analysed trademarks (PET and PVC from Italy; PA, PP, and nylon from Croatia); (iv) the annual amount ingested by humans from marine salt consumption ranges between 131.4–372.3 items/y (CRO) and 306.6–580.35 items/y (IT) considering a dose of 5 g of salt per day; (v) statistics performed on factors of interest evidenced that the geographical origin of marine salt do not affect neither levels nor chemical composition of MPs in tested trademarks; while slight correlations are recorded with non-synthetic particles. Further studies are needed to better explore on statistical basis if both levels and chemical composition of MPs in table salts of marine origin can be used or not as good indicators of marine pollution.
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63
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Filgueiras AV, Gago J, Campillo JA, León VM. Microplastic distribution in surface sediments along the Spanish Mediterranean continental shelf. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 26:21264-21273. [PMID: 31119537 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-019-05341-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Revised: 04/01/2019] [Accepted: 05/01/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are widely recognised as a contaminant of emerging concern in the marine environment. This work provides original data of the presence of MPs in coastal sediments along the Spanish Mediterranean continental shelf. Ten surface sediment samples were collected in order to document baseline microplastic distribution from Algeciras to Barcelona. Microplastics were extracted from bulk sediments by density separation. The number of microplastics per kilogramme of dry weight ranged from 45.9 ± 23.9 MPs/kg d.w. observed at Palma de Mallorca to 280.3 ± 164.9 MPs/kg d.w. noted at Málaga, with an average value of 113.2 ± 88.9 MPs/kg d.w. The lower limit is defined by the pore filter size used (1.2 μm). For all analysed locations, the dominant microplastic type was fibres (82.9%), followed by fragments, and the main colours were transparent and blue. Microplastic size distribution was presented; in the case of fragments, 85% was lower than 0.5 mm, and in the case of fibres, the three studied intervals (0.5-1, 1-2, 2-5 mm) had similar distribution (35, 34 and 31%, respectively). Attending to all available data, no statistically significant relationship (Spearman's correlation) was found between microplastic average size and distance to the coast, the depth, density population and sediment grain size. Neither relationship was observed between these variables and microplastic concentration using the non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis H test. This study has confirmed the widespread distribution of MPs in surface sediments from the Spanish Mediterranean continental shelf, and these data are useful to define baselines for MPs in the Western Mediterranean region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Virginia Filgueiras
- Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO), Centro Oceanográfico de Vigo, Subida a Radio Faro, 50-52, 36390, Vigo, Spain.
| | - Jesús Gago
- Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO), Centro Oceanográfico de Vigo, Subida a Radio Faro, 50-52, 36390, Vigo, Spain
| | - Juan Antonio Campillo
- Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO), Centro Oceanográfico de Murcia, Apdo. 22, C/ Varadero 1, 30740 San Pedro del Pinatar, Murcia, Spain
| | - Víctor Manuel León
- Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO), Centro Oceanográfico de Murcia, Apdo. 22, C/ Varadero 1, 30740 San Pedro del Pinatar, Murcia, Spain
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64
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Guerranti C, Martellini T, Perra G, Scopetani C, Cincinelli A. Microplastics in cosmetics: Environmental issues and needs for global bans. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2019; 68:75-79. [PMID: 30877953 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2019.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Revised: 02/15/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Despite the microbeads from cosmetic products do not contribute with high percentages to the microplastic pollution, they can pose a threat to the environment, being discharged into the water bodies and just partially blocked by the wastewater treatment plants. As environmental associations have been fighting for the abolition of microplastics in PCCPs, in many countries measures have been taken and bans are already operational or in process. Some cosmetic companies have voluntarily renounced the use of microbeads and some voluntary certifications of PCCPs prohibit their use. PCCPs recently analysed can contain levels of microbeads reaching 50,391 per g and can contribute with every single use to the introduction of 229,000 microbeads into the domestic sewage. Given the spread and danger of these pollutants, the problem is global and unthinkable to be solved by banning microplastic-containing products only in some countries, thus a general ban would be necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Guerranti
- Consorzio Interuniversitario per lo Sviluppo dei Sistemi a Grande Interfase (CSGI), University of Florence, Via della Lastruccia 3, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019, FI, Italy.
| | - T Martellini
- Consorzio Interuniversitario per lo Sviluppo dei Sistemi a Grande Interfase (CSGI), University of Florence, Via della Lastruccia 3, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019, FI, Italy; Department of Chemistry "Ugo Schiff", University of Florence, Via della Lastruccia 3, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019, FI, Italy
| | - G Perra
- Independent Researcher, Ecotoxicologist, Italy
| | - C Scopetani
- Department of Chemistry "Ugo Schiff", University of Florence, Via della Lastruccia 3, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019, FI, Italy
| | - A Cincinelli
- Consorzio Interuniversitario per lo Sviluppo dei Sistemi a Grande Interfase (CSGI), University of Florence, Via della Lastruccia 3, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019, FI, Italy; Department of Chemistry "Ugo Schiff", University of Florence, Via della Lastruccia 3, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019, FI, Italy
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Giani D, Baini M, Galli M, Casini S, Fossi MC. Microplastics occurrence in edible fish species (Mullus barbatus and Merluccius merluccius) collected in three different geographical sub-areas of the Mediterranean Sea. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2019; 140:129-137. [PMID: 30803626 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2019.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2018] [Revised: 12/27/2018] [Accepted: 01/04/2019] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
The gastrointestinal tracts of 229 demersal fish belonging to two species (Mullus barbatus, Merluccius merluccius) were examined for microplastic ingestion. Samples were collected in 3 different FAO Geographical Sub-Areas (GSA-9, GSA-17, GSA-19) of the Mediterranean Sea. Ingested microplastics were characterized using a stereo-microscope: observed, photographed, measured and categorized according to size class, shape and colour. Plastic fragments (ranging from 0.10 to 6.6 mm) were detected in 23.3% of the total investigated fish; a total of 65 plastic particles (66% constituted by fibers) were recorded. The percentage of plastic ingestion shows high variability between the two species and among the different sampling area. The highest frequency (48%) was found in European hake from GSA-19. These preliminary results represent a baseline for the implementation of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive descriptor 10 in Italy as well as an important step for detecting microplastics in bioindicator species from different GSAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dario Giani
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; CoNISMa Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze del Mare, Roma, Italy
| | - Matteo Baini
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; CoNISMa Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze del Mare, Roma, Italy.
| | - Matteo Galli
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; CoNISMa Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze del Mare, Roma, Italy
| | - Silvia Casini
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; CoNISMa Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze del Mare, Roma, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Fossi
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; CoNISMa Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze del Mare, Roma, Italy
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66
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Zhang C, Zhou H, Cui Y, Wang C, Li Y, Zhang D. Microplastics in offshore sediment in the Yellow Sea and East China Sea, China. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2019; 244:827-833. [PMID: 30390456 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2018.10.102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 174] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2018] [Revised: 10/23/2018] [Accepted: 10/24/2018] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic particles are a global concern due to their widespread and growing threat to marine and coastal environments. To improve knowledge of microplastic pollution in China, we investigated 25 sediment samples collected with a box corer in the Southern Yellow Sea and East China Sea off the coast of China. The microplastics were extracted from sediments via density separation, after which they were observed under a microscope and characterized according to shape, color, and size, while polymer type identification was performed using micro-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The abundance of microplastics in the offshore region of the Southern Yellow Sea and East China Sea was mapped. The mean concentration of microplastics at the 25 sites was 13.4 ± 0.6 particles 100 g-1 dry weight (range: 6.0-24.0 particles 100 g-1 dry weight). Based on the categorization according to shape, color, and size, fiber (77%) was the most abundant shape, while blue (35%) and transparent (29%) were the most prevalent colors. In addition, the dominant size of microplastics was smaller than 1000 μm which accounted for 89%. Finally, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, acrylic, polyester, cellulose, and cellophane were the most abundant types of microplastics identified. Our result highlighted the presence of microplastics in offshore sediments from the Yellow Sea and East China Sea, and provided useful information for evaluating the environmental risks posed by microplastics in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunfang Zhang
- Institute of Marine Biology, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan, 316021, Zhejiang, China; College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541006, China
| | - Hanghai Zhou
- Institute of Marine Biology, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan, 316021, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yaozong Cui
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541006, China
| | - Chunsheng Wang
- Second Institute of Oceanography, State Oceanic Administration, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yanhong Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin, 541006, China
| | - Dongdong Zhang
- Institute of Marine Biology, Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Zhoushan, 316021, Zhejiang, China.
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67
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Renzi M, Specchiulli A, Blašković A, Manzo C, Mancinelli G, Cilenti L. Marine litter in stomach content of small pelagic fishes from the Adriatic Sea: sardines (Sardina pilchardus) and anchovies (Engraulis encrasicolus). ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 26:2771-2781. [PMID: 30484055 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-018-3762-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Accepted: 11/13/2018] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
Marine litter impacts oceans and affects marine organisms, representing a potential threat for natural stocks of pelagic fish species located at the first levels of the marine food webs. In 2013-2014, on a seasonal basis, marine litter and microplastics in stomach contents from Sardinia pilchardus and Engraulis encrasicolus were evaluated. Selected species are plankitivores of great ecological and commercial importance in the Adriatic Sea. Collected data were correlated to possible factors able to affect ingested levels as well as species, season of sampling, biometry and sex of animals. Almost all tested samples (80 organisms for each species) contained marine litter (over 90% of samples from both species) and also microplastics; while any meso- or macroplastics were recorded. On average, recorded items were as follows: 4.63 (S. plichardus) and 1.25 (E. encrasicolus) per individual. Sardines evidenced a higher number of microplastics characterised by a smaller size than those recorded in anchovies. For sardines, sex, Gastro Somatic Index and sampling season showed negligible effects on the number of ingested litter; conversely, anchovies showed differences related with both sex of animals and dominant colour of ingested materials with prevalence for black and blue colours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monia Renzi
- Bioscience Research Center, Via Aurelia Vecchia 32, 58015, Orbetello, Grosseto, Italy.
| | - Antonietta Specchiulli
- Department of Lesina (FG), National Research Council - Institute for Biological Resources and Marine Biotechnologies Marine Science, Via Pola 4, 71010, Lesina, Foggia, Italy
| | - Andrea Blašković
- Bioscience Research Center, Via Aurelia Vecchia 32, 58015, Orbetello, Grosseto, Italy
| | - Cristina Manzo
- Department of Lesina (FG), National Research Council - Institute for Biological Resources and Marine Biotechnologies Marine Science, Via Pola 4, 71010, Lesina, Foggia, Italy
| | - Giorgio Mancinelli
- Department of Lesina (FG), National Research Council - Institute for Biological Resources and Marine Biotechnologies Marine Science, Via Pola 4, 71010, Lesina, Foggia, Italy
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies, University of the Salento, Lecce, Italy
- CoNISMa, Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze del Mare, Piazzale Flaminio, 4, 00196, Rome, Italy
| | - Lucrezia Cilenti
- Department of Lesina (FG), National Research Council - Institute for Biological Resources and Marine Biotechnologies Marine Science, Via Pola 4, 71010, Lesina, Foggia, Italy
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68
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Renzi M, Čižmek H, Blašković A. Marine litter in sediments related to ecological features in impacted sites and marine protected areas (Croatia). MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2019; 138:25-29. [PMID: 30660271 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.11.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2018] [Revised: 11/09/2018] [Accepted: 11/13/2018] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
This study estimates levels of marine litter including plastics (macro-, meso- and microplastics) in sediments collected in shallow marine water from Croatia (Central Adriatic Sea). Selected sampling areas are characterized by different human pressure: Silba is highly stressed by tourism while Grebena is listed as marine protected area (MPA) of future institution. Obtained results on marine litter in sediments are correlated to ecological features recorded in each sampling site. Marine litter in collected sediments ranged within 180-528 items/kg d.w. Macroplastics were not recorded while mesoplastics were 1.3-4.8%. On a general basis, fibres are higher than microplastics. In Južni Greben, level of fragments higher than fibres was recorded. A slight significance of the factor "water depth" was evidenced by the statistical analyses exploring relationships among marine litter and ecological features. Furthermore, Silba and Grebena Islands showed a significant different assessment of size, shape and colour features. These results suggest different sources/dynamics affecting marine litter recorded in marine areas stressed by tourism compared to MPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monia Renzi
- Bioscience Research Center, Via Aurelia Vecchia, 32, 58015 Orbetello, GR, Italy.
| | - Hrvoje Čižmek
- Marine Explorers Society - 20000 Leagues, Put Bokanjca 26A, 23000 Zadar, ZD, Croatia
| | - Andrea Blašković
- Bioscience Research Center, Via Aurelia Vecchia, 32, 58015 Orbetello, GR, Italy
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69
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Balbar AC, Metaxas A. The current application of ecological connectivity in the design of marine protected areas. Glob Ecol Conserv 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gecco.2019.e00569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
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70
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Phuong NN, Poirier L, Lagarde F, Kamari A, Zalouk-Vergnoux A. Microplastic abundance and characteristics in French Atlantic coastal sediments using a new extraction method. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2018; 243:228-237. [PMID: 30176496 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2018.08.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2018] [Revised: 07/24/2018] [Accepted: 08/11/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The ubiquitous presence of microplastics (MPs) has been demonstrated in all environmental compartments in the recent years. They are detected in air, freshwater, soil, organisms and particularly in marine ecosystems. Since sediments are known to be the major sink of many organic and inorganic pollutants, the aim of this study was to develop and validate a fast and cheap methodology to assess the MP contamination in intertidal sediments from the Gulf of Biscay (Pays de la Loire region, France). Sediments were sampled at three locations (Pays de la Loire region, France) and during two seasons: October 2015 and March 2016. The analytical protocol involved MP extraction from dried sediments using milliQ water and a centrifugation technique. After a filtration step of supernatants, MPs were detected and directly identified on the membrane filters using μFTIR spectroscopy in reflection mode. For the first time, the number of replicates allowing to obtain a satisfying representativeness of the whole sampled sediment was also evaluated at 10 replicates of 25 g each. The average number of MPs in sediments was 67 (±76) MPs/kg dw (N = 60) with no significant difference between sites and seasons. Ten different compositions of MPs were defined by μFT-IR with a high proportion of polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE), 38 and 24%, respectively. Among MPs, mainly fragments (84%) were observed with main size classes corresponding to [>100 μm] and [50-100 μm] but no particles > 1 mm could be found suggesting that mainly small microplastics (<1 mm) were subject to vertical transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nam Ngoc Phuong
- Laboratoire Mer, Molécules, Santé (MMS, EA 2160), Université de Nantes, 2 rue de la Houssinière, Nantes, F-44000, France; PhuTho college of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2201 Hung Vuong Boulevard, Viettri City, PhuTho Province, 290000, Viet Nam
| | - Laurence Poirier
- Laboratoire Mer, Molécules, Santé (MMS, EA 2160), Université de Nantes, 2 rue de la Houssinière, Nantes, F-44000, France.
| | - Fabienne Lagarde
- Institut des Molécules et Matériaux du Mans (IMMM, UMR CNRS 6283), Université du Maine, Avenue Olivier Messiaen, Le Mans, F-72000, France
| | - Abderrahmane Kamari
- Laboratoire Mer, Molécules, Santé (MMS, EA 2160), Université de Nantes, 2 rue de la Houssinière, Nantes, F-44000, France
| | - Aurore Zalouk-Vergnoux
- Laboratoire Mer, Molécules, Santé (MMS, EA 2160), Université de Nantes, 2 rue de la Houssinière, Nantes, F-44000, France
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71
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Martellini T, Guerranti C, Scopetani C, Ugolini A, Chelazzi D, Cincinelli A. A snapshot of microplastics in the coastal areas of the Mediterranean Sea. Trends Analyt Chem 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.trac.2018.09.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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72
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Zhao J, Ran W, Teng J, Liu Y, Liu H, Yin X, Cao R, Wang Q. Microplastic pollution in sediments from the Bohai Sea and the Yellow Sea, China. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2018; 640-641:637-645. [PMID: 29870939 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.05.346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 271] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2018] [Revised: 05/27/2018] [Accepted: 05/28/2018] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are one of the most significant pollutants in the marine environment and accumulate in sediments all over the world. To assess the pollution level in the marine environment in China, the distribution and abundance of microplastics in sediments from the Bohai Sea and the Yellow Sea were investigated in this study. The sediment samples were collected from 72 different sites in the Bohai Sea and the Yellow Sea. Microplastics were separated from sediment through density flotation and categorized according to shape and size under a microscope. Additionally, polymer types were identified using Fourier-Transform Infrared Micro-spectroscopy (μ-FT-IR). Our study demonstrated that microplastics were consistently found in all samples, which emphasized their extensive distribution throughout the Bohai Sea and the Yellow Sea. The average microplastic abundance was 171.8, 123.6 and 72.0 items per kg of dry weight sediment for the Bohai Sea, Northern Yellow Sea and Southern Yellow Sea, respectively. Among the sampled microplastics, fiber (93.88%) and small microplastics (<1000 μm) (71.06%) were the most frequent types. Fourier transform infrared microspectroscopy (μ-FT-IR) analysis determined that the main types of microplastics were rayon (RY), polyethylene (PE) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Our results highlighted the widespread distribution of microplastics in sediments from the Bohai Sea and the Yellow Sea and provided useful information for evaluating the environmental risks of microplastics in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianmin Zhao
- Muping Coastal Environment Research Station, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research (YIC), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Wen Ran
- Muping Coastal Environment Research Station, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research (YIC), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Yantai 264003, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Jia Teng
- Muping Coastal Environment Research Station, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research (YIC), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Yantai 264003, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Yongliang Liu
- Muping Coastal Environment Research Station, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research (YIC), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Hui Liu
- Muping Coastal Environment Research Station, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research (YIC), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Xiaonan Yin
- Yantai Oil Spill Response Technical Center of Yantai Maritime Safety Administration, Yantai 264000, PR China
| | - Ruiwen Cao
- Muping Coastal Environment Research Station, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research (YIC), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Yantai 264003, PR China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Qing Wang
- Muping Coastal Environment Research Station, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research (YIC), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Yantai 264003, PR China.
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73
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Microplastics in marine sediments in the area of Pianosa Island (Central Adriatic Sea). RENDICONTI LINCEI-SCIENZE FISICHE E NATURALI 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s12210-018-0736-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
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74
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Vianello A, Da Ros L, Boldrin A, Marceta T, Moschino V. First evaluation of floating microplastics in the Northwestern Adriatic Sea. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 25:28546-28561. [PMID: 30091074 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-018-2812-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2017] [Accepted: 07/20/2018] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution in the marine environment is becoming a problem of global concern, and the Mediterranean is believed to be one of the worst affected regional seas. The present study presents data on floating microplastics in the Northwestern Adriatic Sea in order to evaluate the possible contribution of two significant potential sources: the lagoon of Venice and the Po River. Samples were collected in March and April 2014 along two transects located off Pellestrina Island (Venice) and the Po Delta, each consisting of four sampling stations at 0.5, 3, 10, and 20 km from the shoreline. Microplastics were quantified and classified according to their colors and shapes and analyzed by micro-attenuated total reflection-FT-IR. Microplastics were found in all samples, albeit with high spatial and temporal variability. The highest concentrations were observed in March at the offshore station of the Pellestrina transect (10.4 particles m-2) and the two landward stations off the Po Delta (2.1 and 4.3 particles m-2), highlighting the influence of various factors, such as surface circulation and river discharges, in determining specific accumulation patterns. The most common polymers were polyethylene and polypropylene, and most of the particles were secondary microplastics (83.5%). The patchy distribution of microplastics observed in the study area is driven by hydrodynamic and meteorological factors acting on short time scales.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alvise Vianello
- Institute for the Dynamics of Environmental Processes (IDPA), CNR, Venezia, Italy
- Civil Engineering Department, Section of Water and Environment, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Luisa Da Ros
- Institute for the Dynamics of Environmental Processes (IDPA), CNR, Venezia, Italy
- Institute of Marine Sciences (ISMAR), CNR, Venezia, Italy
| | | | - Tihana Marceta
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
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75
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Renzi M, Blašković A, Bernardi G, Russo GF. Plastic litter transfer from sediments towards marine trophic webs: A case study on holothurians. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 135:376-385. [PMID: 30301049 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.07.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2018] [Revised: 07/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/14/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
This study estimates for the very first time plastic litter levels in sea cucumbers (Echinodermata, Holothuroidea) sampled in situ and their intakes from sediments in three different rocky bottom habitats (slides, cliff, banks) settled in Salina Island (Aeolian Archipelago). Macroplastic were never recorded while meso- and microplastics were identified in all sediment (81-438 items/kg d.w.) and animal samples (1.8-22 items/ind.). Plastic intakes by sea cucumbers resulted frequently associated to the size range included within 100-2000 μm. Over than 70% of ingested plastic litter is represented by the size fraction >500 μm. Sediment/animals ratios % are included 2.7 ± 2.0% in studied habitats with a selective intake of fragments occurring in slides. Furthermore, results support the occurrence of selective ingestion of plastic litter by holothurians in natural environments underlining the role of these species in microplastic transfer from abiotic towards biotic compartments of the marine trophic web.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monia Renzi
- Bioscience Research Center, Via Aurelia Vecchia, 32, 58015 Orbetello, GR, Italy.
| | - Andrea Blašković
- Bioscience Research Center, Via Aurelia Vecchia, 32, 58015 Orbetello, GR, Italy
| | - Giulia Bernardi
- Department of Sciences for the Environment, University of Naples Parthenope, Via A. De Gasperi 5, 80133 Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni F Russo
- Department of Sciences for the Environment, University of Naples Parthenope, Via A. De Gasperi 5, 80133 Naples, Italy
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76
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Pagter E, Frias J, Nash R. Microplastics in Galway Bay: A comparison of sampling and separation methods. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 135:932-940. [PMID: 30301118 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2018] [Revised: 08/02/2018] [Accepted: 08/03/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics, an emerging pollutant, are recognised as having a ubiquitous distribution in the environment. Currently several benthic sampling tools are being employed to collect subtidal marine sediment, however, there are no comparative studies on the efficiency of these tools to sample for microplastics or the subsequent extraction methods of microplastics from these marine sediments. This study addresses these knowledge gaps by comparing commonly applied benthic sampling tools (Van Veen grab, box corer, gravity corer) and a variety of density separation methods (elutriation column, sodium chloride solution, sodium tungstate dihydrate solution) for microplastic collection and processing. Each sampling tool was tested at the same station and the collected sediment was used to assess the extraction performance for the different density separation techniques. No statistically significant differences were found between the concentrations of microplastics extracted for any of the sampling tools. However, there were significant differences between the density separation methods using sodium tungstate dihydrate and sodium chloride solution and the elutriation method. This preliminary study provides evidence that the sampling tools tested are both suitable and proficient at determining the abundance of microplastics in sediments. Sodium tungstate dihydrate proved to be a novel and feasible option for dense liquid separation of microplastics in subtidal marine sediments. These results will allow for more confidence in data quality when comparing future surveys applying different benthic sampling tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Pagter
- Marine and Freshwater Research Centre (MFRC), Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology (GMIT), Old Dublin Rd., Galway H91 T8NW, Ireland.
| | - João Frias
- Marine and Freshwater Research Centre (MFRC), Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology (GMIT), Old Dublin Rd., Galway H91 T8NW, Ireland
| | - Róisín Nash
- Marine and Freshwater Research Centre (MFRC), Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology (GMIT), Old Dublin Rd., Galway H91 T8NW, Ireland
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77
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Renzi M, Blašković A. Litter & microplastics features in table salts from marine origin: Italian versus Croatian brands. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 135:62-68. [PMID: 30301081 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.06.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2018] [Revised: 06/28/2018] [Accepted: 06/30/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
This study estimates litter content, including microplastics, mesoplastic, and macroplastic in marine table salts coming from Italy and Croatia. Both high (HC) and low (LC) costs commercial brands easily found at the supermarket were analysed. Any macroplastic or mesoplastic were recovered while microplastics and other litter impurities significantly affect table salts of all tested brands. Average microplastic values ranged within 1.57 (HC) - 8.23 (LC) (Italy) and 27.13 (HC) - 31.68 (LC) items/g (Croatia). Microplastics sizes (min-max) ranged within 4-2100 μm (Italy) and 15-4628 μm (Croatia). In samples from both Nations, a significant general positive correlation between the average number of items/g recorded and the total amount of general impurities was recorded. Concerning microplastic shapes, in Italy, fragments dominated even if fibres, granules, films, and foams are frequently recorded. On the contrary, clear PP fibres dominated in Croatian brands even if also other shape classes were recorded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monia Renzi
- Bioscience Research Center, Via Aurelia Vecchia, 32, 58015 Orbetello, GR, Italy.
| | - Andrea Blašković
- Bioscience Research Center, Via Aurelia Vecchia, 32, 58015 Orbetello, GR, Italy
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78
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Blašković A, Guerranti C, Fastelli P, Anselmi S, Renzi M. Plastic levels in sediments closed to Cecina river estuary (Tuscany, Italy). MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 135:105-109. [PMID: 30300999 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.07.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2018] [Revised: 07/03/2018] [Accepted: 07/05/2018] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
This study focuses on plastic distribution levels (shape, size, colour, type) in sediments from the coastal area of Cecina (Tuscany, Italy). Samples are collected in three sampling stations along six transect settled randomly along the shoreline and along the final tract of the Cecina river. Recorded plastic size ranges within 62.51-13,462 μm (average values 1591 ± 837 μm). Microplastics (<5000 μm) represent over than 97% of the total even if mesoplastics (5000-25,000 μm) are also recorded (2%). Over than 60% of recorded plastic items are higher than 500 μm. Measured levels range within 72 (ST2)-191 (ST4) items/kg d.w. Fragment > Fiber > Granule in each of the tested sampling site. Plastic litter levels recorded in study evidence low pollution compared to the existing literature supporting the occurrence of good environmental levels in Cecina coastline for the "Marine litter" descriptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Blašković
- Bioscience Research Center, via Aurelia Vecchia, 32, 58015 Orbetello, Italy
| | | | - Paolo Fastelli
- Bioscience Research Center, via Aurelia Vecchia, 32, 58015 Orbetello, Italy
| | - Serena Anselmi
- Bioscience Research Center, via Aurelia Vecchia, 32, 58015 Orbetello, Italy
| | - Monia Renzi
- Bioscience Research Center, via Aurelia Vecchia, 32, 58015 Orbetello, Italy.
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Zhu L, Bai H, Chen B, Sun X, Qu K, Xia B. Microplastic pollution in North Yellow Sea, China: Observations on occurrence, distribution and identification. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2018; 636:20-29. [PMID: 29702399 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.04.182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 206] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2018] [Revised: 04/13/2018] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are emerging contaminants and have attracted widespread environmental concerns about their negative effects on the marine ecosystems. In this study, we investigated the abundances, distributions and characteristics of microplastics in surface seawater and sediments from the North Yellow Sea. The results showed that the abundance of microplastics was 545 ± 282 items/m3 in surface seawater and 37.1 ± 42.7 items/kg dry weight in sediments, representing a medium microplastic pollution level compared with other sea areas. Small microplastics (<1 mm) made up >70% of the total microplastic numbers. Films and fibers were the dominant shapes of microplastics in both the surface seawater and sediments. Transparent microplastics were generally more common than microplastics of other colors. Based on the identification by a Fourier transform infrared microscope, polyethylene (PE) was the dominant composition of microplastics in surface seawater, while polypropylene (PP) was the most common polymer type in sediments. These results will improve our understanding of the environmental risks posed by microplastics to marine ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Zhu
- Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China; Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266000, China
| | - Huaiyu Bai
- Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Bijuan Chen
- Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China; Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266000, China
| | - Xuemei Sun
- Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China; Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266000, China
| | - Keming Qu
- Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Bin Xia
- Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China; Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266000, China.
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80
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Baini M, Fossi MC, Galli M, Caliani I, Campani T, Finoia MG, Panti C. Abundance and characterization of microplastics in the coastal waters of Tuscany (Italy): The application of the MSFD monitoring protocol in the Mediterranean Sea. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 133:543-552. [PMID: 30041348 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2018] [Revised: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 06/06/2018] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Monitoring efforts are required to understand the sources, distribution and abundance of microplastic pollution. To verify the abundance of microplastics along the Tuscan coastal waters (Italy), water-column and surface samples were collected in two seasons across four transects at different distances to the coast (0.5, 5, 10 and 20 km), within the implementation of the European Marine Strategy Framework Directive. The results show an average concentration of 0.26 items/m3 in the water-column samples and 41.1 g/km2 and 69,161.3 items/km2 of floating microplastics, with an increase with the distance to the coast The seasonality and the sampling area do not affect the abundance of microplastics. The most abundant size class is 1-2.5 mm as fragments and sheets suggesting that fragmentation of larger polyethylene and polypropylene items could be the main source of microplastics. These data represent the application of a harmonized protocol to make the data on microplastics comparable and reliable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Baini
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via P.A. Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy; National Inter-University Consortium for Marine Sciences, CoNISMa, ULR Siena, Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00182 Roma, Italy.
| | - Maria Cristina Fossi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via P.A. Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy; National Inter-University Consortium for Marine Sciences, CoNISMa, ULR Siena, Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00182 Roma, Italy
| | - Matteo Galli
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via P.A. Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy; National Inter-University Consortium for Marine Sciences, CoNISMa, ULR Siena, Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00182 Roma, Italy
| | - Ilaria Caliani
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via P.A. Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy; National Inter-University Consortium for Marine Sciences, CoNISMa, ULR Siena, Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00182 Roma, Italy
| | - Tommaso Campani
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via P.A. Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy; National Inter-University Consortium for Marine Sciences, CoNISMa, ULR Siena, Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00182 Roma, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Finoia
- ISPRA, Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Via V. Brancati 48, 00144 Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina Panti
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via P.A. Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy; National Inter-University Consortium for Marine Sciences, CoNISMa, ULR Siena, Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00182 Roma, Italy
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81
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Krishnakumar S, Srinivasalu S, Saravanan P, Vidyasakar A, Magesh NS. A preliminary study on coastal debris in Nallathanni Island, Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve, Southeast coast of India. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 131:547-551. [PMID: 29886981 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.04.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2018] [Revised: 04/10/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Nine sampling stations were fixed to carry out the preliminary investigation on coastal debris from Nallathanni island, Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve, Southeast coast of India. The coastal debris were separated and identified using hand picking, visual identification and microscopic studies. The coastal areas of the study region were less dominated by micro plastic contamination. The coastal debris was dominated by polyethylene bottles and fibrous fishnet materials. The distribution of the coastal debris along the coastal region is chiefly controlled by winnowing action of sea waves and Aeolian action along the berm region.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Krishnakumar
- Department of Geology, University of Madras, Guindy Campus, Chennai 600 025, India.
| | - S Srinivasalu
- Institute for Ocean Management, Anna University, Chennai 600025, India
| | - P Saravanan
- Department of Geology, University of Madras, Guindy Campus, Chennai 600 025, India
| | - A Vidyasakar
- Department of Geology, Periyar University PG Extension Centre, Dharmapuri 636701, India
| | - N S Magesh
- Department of Geology, Anna University, Guindy Campus, Chennai 600 025, India
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82
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Renzi M, Guerranti C, Blašković A. Microplastic contents from maricultured and natural mussels. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 131:248-251. [PMID: 29886944 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.04.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2018] [Revised: 04/11/2018] [Accepted: 04/12/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Results of this research focuses on microplastic contents (levels, type, size, colour) in maricultured and natural mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) from different Italian stocks. No significant differences were found among maricultured and natural stocks. All recovered MPs are filaments ranging within 750-6000 μm of maximum length (average values 1150-2290 μm). Feeding raw mussel could produce median MP intakes of 6.2-7.2 items/g w.w. Concerning human exposure by diet, both raw and cooked values are important. Some preliminary tests performed in this study evidenced that the cooking process determined lower MPs levels (-14%) in cooked tissues compared to raw ones, MPs were recorded in cooking water and were characterized by a lower size than in raw mussels. Results obtained by this study represent an important baseline on MPs level to evaluate environmental and human exposure risks by diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monia Renzi
- Bioscience Research Center, via Aurelia Vecchia, 32, 58015 Orbetello, Italy.
| | | | - Andrea Blašković
- Bioscience Research Center, via Aurelia Vecchia, 32, 58015 Orbetello, Italy
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83
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Renzi M, Blašković A, Fastelli P, Marcelli M, Guerranti C, Cannas S, Barone L, Massara F. Is the microplastic selective according to the habitat? Records in amphioxus sands, Mäerl bed habitats and Cymodocea nodosa habitats. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 130:179-183. [PMID: 29866544 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2018] [Revised: 03/10/2018] [Accepted: 03/12/2018] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
This study estimated for the first time the total loads of plastic litter (macro- meso- and micro-plastics) in sediments of different habitat types from the Northern Adriatic Sea. Samples were collected in March 2016. The sampling sites were settled in shoreline, on the C. nodosa bottoms, Amphioxus sands, and Mäerl bed habitats. Microplastics items were present in all sampling site and ranging within 137-703 items/kg d.w. from Mäerl bed habitat to the shoreline. In C. nodosa bottoms 170 items/kg d.w. were found, while in Amphioxus sands were recorded on average 194 items/kg d.w. Due to the absence of statistical associations among litter levels and abundance of B. lanceolatum in the study area, this research present the needs to develop a new method and more research to for the evaluation of how much the interrelation between sensible habitats and microplastic exist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monia Renzi
- Bioscience Research Center, Via Aurelia Vecchia, 32, 58015 Orbetello, GR, Italy.
| | - Andrea Blašković
- Bioscience Research Center, Via Aurelia Vecchia, 32, 58015 Orbetello, GR, Italy
| | - Paolo Fastelli
- Bioscience Research Center, Via Aurelia Vecchia, 32, 58015 Orbetello, GR, Italy
| | | | - Cristiana Guerranti
- Bioscience Research Center, Via Aurelia Vecchia, 32, 58015 Orbetello, GR, Italy
| | - Susanna Cannas
- Bioscience Research Center, Via Aurelia Vecchia, 32, 58015 Orbetello, GR, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Barone
- Poliservizi srl, Via di S. Andrea delle Fratte, 24, 00187 Roma, Italy
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84
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Phuong NN, Poirier L, Pham QT, Lagarde F, Zalouk-Vergnoux A. Factors influencing the microplastic contamination of bivalves from the French Atlantic coast: Location, season and/or mode of life? MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 129:664-674. [PMID: 29106937 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.10.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 151] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2017] [Revised: 10/20/2017] [Accepted: 10/20/2017] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Monitoring the presence of microplastics (MP) in marine organisms is currently of high importance. This paper presents the qualitative and quantitative MP contamination of two bivalves from the French Atlantic coasts: the blue mussel (Mytilus edulis) and the Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas). Three factors potentially influencing the contamination were investigated by collecting at different sampling sites and different seasons, organisms both wild and cultivated. Inter- and intra-species comparisons were also achieved. MP quantity in organisms was evaluated at 0.61±0.56 and 2.1±1.7MP per individual respectively for mussels and oysters. Eight different polymers were identified. Most of the MPs were fragments; about a half of MPs were grey colored and a half with a size ranging from 50 to 100μm for both studied species. Some inter-specific differences were found but no evidence for sampling site, season or mode of life effect was highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nam Ngoc Phuong
- Laboratoire Mer, Molécules, Santé (MMS, EA 2160), Université de Nantes, 2 rue de la Houssinière, Nantes F-44000, France; PhuTho college of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2201 Hung Vuong Boulevard, Viettri City, PhuTho Province 290000, Viet Nam
| | - Laurence Poirier
- Laboratoire Mer, Molécules, Santé (MMS, EA 2160), Université de Nantes, 2 rue de la Houssinière, Nantes F-44000, France
| | - Quoc Tuan Pham
- PhuTho college of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2201 Hung Vuong Boulevard, Viettri City, PhuTho Province 290000, Viet Nam
| | - Fabienne Lagarde
- Institut des Molécules et Matériaux du Mans (IMMM, UMR CNRS 6283), Le Mans Université, Avenue Olivier Messiaen, Le Mans F-72000, France
| | - Aurore Zalouk-Vergnoux
- Laboratoire Mer, Molécules, Santé (MMS, EA 2160), Université de Nantes, 2 rue de la Houssinière, Nantes F-44000, France.
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85
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Schneider F, Parsons S, Clift S, Stolte A, McManus MC. Collected marine litter - A growing waste challenge. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 128:162-174. [PMID: 29571359 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2017] [Revised: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 01/06/2018] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Marine litter, in particular plastic debris, poses a serious threat to marine life, human health and the economy. In order to reduce its impact, marine litter collections such as beach clean-ups are frequently conducted. This paper presents a systematic review of temporal developments, geographical distribution, quantities and waste treatment pathways of collected marine litter. Results from over 130 studies and projects highlight the worldwide increase in collection efforts. Many of these are in wealthy countries that do not primarily contribute to the problem. Over 250 thousand tonnes, have already been removed, but there is little or no information available regarding how this waste is treated or used post collection. This paper highlights the need for a whole-system quantitative assessment for the collection and waste treatment of marine litter, and identifies the challenges associated with utilising this waste in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Falk Schneider
- University of Bath, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Claverton Down BA2 7AY, United Kingdom.
| | - Sophie Parsons
- University of Bath, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Claverton Down BA2 7AY, United Kingdom
| | - Sally Clift
- University of Bath, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Claverton Down BA2 7AY, United Kingdom
| | - Andrea Stolte
- WWF Germany, WWF-Ostseebüro, Knieperwall 1, 18439 Stralsund, Germany
| | - Marcelle C McManus
- University of Bath, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Claverton Down BA2 7AY, United Kingdom
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86
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Mistri M, Infantini V, Scoponi M, Granata T, Moruzzi L, Massara F, De Donati M, Munari C. Small plastic debris in sediments from the Central Adriatic Sea: Types, occurrence and distribution. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2017; 124:435-440. [PMID: 28779887 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.07.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2017] [Revised: 07/27/2017] [Accepted: 07/29/2017] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
This is the first survey to investigate the occurrence and extent of microplastic contamination in sediments collected along a coast-open sea 140km-long transect in the Central Adriatic Sea. Plastic debris extracted from 64 samples of sediments were counted, weighted and identified by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). Several types of plastic particles were observed in 100% of the stations. Plastic particles ranged from 1 to 30mm in length. The primary shape types by number were filaments (69.3%), followed by fragments (16.4%), and film (14.3%). Microplastics (1-5mm) accounted for 65.1% of debris, mesoplastics (5-20mm) made up 30.3% of total amount, while macro debris (>20mm) accounted for 4.6% of total plastics collected. Identification through FT-IR spectroscopy evidenced the presence of 6 polymer types: the majority of plastic debris were nylon, polyethylene and ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer. Our data are a baseline for microplastic research in the Adriatic Sea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Mistri
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 17, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Vanessa Infantini
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 17, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Marco Scoponi
- ISOF-CNR at Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 17, 44121 Ferrara, Italy; Advanced Polymer Materials, Via G. Saragat 9, 44122 Ferrara, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Cristina Munari
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 17, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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87
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Lots FAE, Behrens P, Vijver MG, Horton AA, Bosker T. A large-scale investigation of microplastic contamination: Abundance and characteristics of microplastics in European beach sediment. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2017; 123:219-226. [PMID: 28893402 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.08.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 200] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2017] [Revised: 08/24/2017] [Accepted: 08/27/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Here we present the large-scale distribution of microplastic contamination in beach sediment across Europe. Sediment samples were collected from 23 locations across 13 countries by citizen scientists, and analysed using a standard operating procedure. We found significant variability in the concentrations of microplastics, ranging from 72±24 to 1512±187 microplastics per kg of dry sediment, with high variability within sampling locations. Three hotspots of microplastic accumulation (>700 microplastics per kg of dry sediment) were found. There was limited variability in the physico-chemical characteristics of the plastics across sampling locations. The majority of the microplastics were fibrous, <1mm in size, and blue/black in colour. In addition, using Raman spectrometry we identified particles as polyester, polyethylene, and polypropylene. Our research is the first large spatial-scale analysis of microplastics on European beaches giving insights into the nature and extent of the microplastic challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Froukje A E Lots
- Leiden University College, Leiden University, P.O. Box 13228, 2501 EE The Hague, The Netherlands.
| | - Paul Behrens
- Leiden University College, Leiden University, P.O. Box 13228, 2501 EE The Hague, The Netherlands; Institute of Environmental Sciences, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9518, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Martina G Vijver
- Institute of Environmental Sciences, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9518, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Alice A Horton
- Institute of Environmental Sciences, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9518, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands; Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Maclean Building, Benson Lane, Wallingford, Oxfordshire OX10 8BB, UK.
| | - Thijs Bosker
- Leiden University College, Leiden University, P.O. Box 13228, 2501 EE The Hague, The Netherlands; Institute of Environmental Sciences, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9518, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands.
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88
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Cannas S, Fastelli P, Guerranti C, Renzi M. Plastic litter in sediments from the coasts of south Tuscany (Tyrrhenian Sea). MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2017; 119:372-375. [PMID: 28410785 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2017] [Revised: 04/04/2017] [Accepted: 04/05/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
This study estimated the total loads of plastic litter (macro-meso- and micro-plastics) in sediments from a wide stretch of marine and coastal environment of Tyrrhenian Sea. The prevailing category of debris was microplastic. The results obtained, in terms of average amount of microplastic per kilogram of dry sediment, are in agreement with data reported by various Authors internationally. The study area resulted to be uniform for plastic items levels. Particularly evident was the influence of a flood, occurred in November 2012 in Talamone, on sediments collected at the harbour of this locality: in this area, a difference in levels and quality of plastic debris, attributable to periods before and after the flood, was observed in sediments. In addition to focusing on the effect of this phenomenon, this study gives an important overview, for what concerns the presence of plastic litter, of a significant naturalistic area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanna Cannas
- Bioscience Research Center, Via Aurelia Vecchia 32, 58015 Orbetello, (GR), Italy
| | - Paolo Fastelli
- Bioscience Research Center, Via Aurelia Vecchia 32, 58015 Orbetello, (GR), Italy
| | - Cristiana Guerranti
- Bioscience Research Center, Via Aurelia Vecchia 32, 58015 Orbetello, (GR), Italy.
| | - Monia Renzi
- Bioscience Research Center, Via Aurelia Vecchia 32, 58015 Orbetello, (GR), Italy
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89
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Guerranti C, Cannas S, Scopetani C, Fastelli P, Cincinelli A, Renzi M. Plastic litter in aquatic environments of Maremma Regional Park (Tyrrhenian Sea, Italy): Contribution by the Ombrone river and levels in marine sediments. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2017; 117:366-370. [PMID: 28202278 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.02.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2017] [Revised: 02/06/2017] [Accepted: 02/07/2017] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
During two surveys in 2015 and 2016, sediments samples were collected along the Ombrone river (Maremma Regional Park, province of Grosseto, Italy), in particular at its mouth and in the marine area in front of it, in order to quantify, identify and categorize plastic items (macro, meso and micro-plastics and colour, material etc.) and evaluate their potential sources. The Albegna and Osa rivers were identified as external areas of comparison. The results of the analysis showed different situations, especially as regards fluvial inputs, in addition to evidencing local provisions of plastic material derived from agricultural activities. The microplastics values per kg of sediment and the prevailing type of items found largely varied between the investigated sites (45-1069items/kg dry sample).
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiana Guerranti
- Bioscience Research Center, Via Aurelia Vecchia 32, 58015 Orbetello (GR), Italy.
| | - Susanna Cannas
- Bioscience Research Center, Via Aurelia Vecchia 32, 58015 Orbetello (GR), Italy
| | - Costanza Scopetani
- University of Florence, Department of Chemistry "Ugo Schiff", Via della Lastruccia 3, 50100 Sesto Fiorentino (FI), Italy
| | - Paolo Fastelli
- Bioscience Research Center, Via Aurelia Vecchia 32, 58015 Orbetello (GR), Italy
| | - Alessandra Cincinelli
- University of Florence, Department of Chemistry "Ugo Schiff", Via della Lastruccia 3, 50100 Sesto Fiorentino (FI), Italy
| | - Monia Renzi
- Bioscience Research Center, Via Aurelia Vecchia 32, 58015 Orbetello (GR), Italy
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90
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Karami A, Golieskardi A, Keong Choo C, Larat V, Galloway TS, Salamatinia B. The presence of microplastics in commercial salts from different countries. Sci Rep 2017; 7:46173. [PMID: 28383020 PMCID: PMC5382780 DOI: 10.1038/srep46173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 200] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2016] [Accepted: 03/09/2017] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The occurrence of microplastics (MPs) in saltwater bodies is relatively well studied, but nothing is known about their presence in most of the commercial salts that are widely consumed by humans across the globe. Here, we extracted MP-like particles larger than 149 μm from 17 salt brands originating from 8 different countries followed by the identification of their polymer composition using micro-Raman spectroscopy. Microplastics were absent in one brand while others contained between 1 to 10 MPs/Kg of salt. Out of the 72 extracted particles, 41.6% were plastic polymers, 23.6% were pigments, 5.50% were amorphous carbon, and 29.1% remained unidentified. The particle size (mean ± SD) was 515 ± 171 μm. The most common plastic polymers were polypropylene (40.0%) and polyethylene (33.3%). Fragments were the primary form of MPs (63.8%) followed by filaments (25.6%) and films (10.6%). According to our results, the low level of anthropogenic particles intake from the salts (maximum 37 particles per individual per annum) warrants negligible health impacts. However, to better understand the health risks associated with salt consumption, further development in extraction protocols are needed to isolate anthropogenic particles smaller than 149 μm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Karami
- Laboratory of Aquatic Toxicology, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Abolfazl Golieskardi
- Laboratory of Aquatic Toxicology, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Cheng Keong Choo
- Discipline of Chemical Engineering, School of Engineering, Monash University Malaysia, 47500 Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Vincent Larat
- HORIBA Jobin Yvon S.A.S., 231, rue de Lille - 59650, Villeneuve d'Ascq, France
| | - Tamara S Galloway
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, EX4 4QD, Devon, United Kingdom
| | - Babak Salamatinia
- Discipline of Chemical Engineering, School of Engineering, Monash University Malaysia, 47500 Selangor, Malaysia
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