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Megha KB, Anvitha D, Parvathi S, Neeraj A, Sonia J, Mohanan PV. Environmental impact of microplastics and potential health hazards. Crit Rev Biotechnol 2024:1-31. [PMID: 38915217 DOI: 10.1080/07388551.2024.2344572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
Microscopic plastic (microplastic) pollutants threaten the earth's biodiversity and ecosystems. As a result of the progressive fragmentation of oversized plastic containers and products or manufacturing in small sizes, microplastics (particles of a diameter of 5 mm with no lower limit) are used in medicines, personal care products, and industry. The incidence of microplastics is found everywhere in the air, marine waters, land, and even food that humans and animals consume. One of the greatest concerns is the permanent damage that is created by plastic waste to our fragile ecosystem. The impossibility of the complete removal of all microplastic contamination from the oceans is one of the principal tasks of our governing body, research scientists, and individuals. Implementing the necessary measures to reduce the levels of plastic consumption is the only way to protect our environment. Cutting off the plastic flow is the key remedy to reducing waste and pollution, and such an approach could show immense significance. This review offers a comprehensive exploration of the various aspects of microplastics, encompassing their composition, types, properties, origins, health risks, and environmental impacts. Furthermore, it delves into strategies for comprehending the dynamics of microplastics within oceanic ecosystems, with a focus on averting their integration into every tier of the food chain.
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Affiliation(s)
- K B Megha
- Toxicology Division, Biomedical Technology Wing, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (Govt. of India), Thiruvananthapuram, India
| | - D Anvitha
- Toxicology Division, Biomedical Technology Wing, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (Govt. of India), Thiruvananthapuram, India
| | - S Parvathi
- Toxicology Division, Biomedical Technology Wing, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (Govt. of India), Thiruvananthapuram, India
| | - A Neeraj
- Toxicology Division, Biomedical Technology Wing, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (Govt. of India), Thiruvananthapuram, India
| | - J Sonia
- Toxicology Division, Biomedical Technology Wing, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (Govt. of India), Thiruvananthapuram, India
| | - P V Mohanan
- Toxicology Division, Biomedical Technology Wing, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (Govt. of India), Thiruvananthapuram, India
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2
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Elkaliny NE, Alzamel NM, Moussa SH, Elodamy NI, Madkor EA, Ibrahim EM, Elshobary ME, Ismail GA. Macroalgae Bioplastics: A Sustainable Shift to Mitigate the Ecological Impact of Petroleum-Based Plastics. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:1246. [PMID: 38732716 PMCID: PMC11085313 DOI: 10.3390/polym16091246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The surge in global utilization of petroleum-based plastics, which notably heightened during the COVID-19 pandemic, has substantially increased its harm to ecosystems. Considering the escalating environmental impact, a pivotal shift towards bioplastics usage is imperative. Exploring and implementing bioplastics as a viable alternative could mitigate the ecological burden posed by traditional plastics. Macroalgae is a potential feedstock for the production of bioplastics due to its abundance, fast growth, and high cellulose and sugar content. Researchers have recently explored various methods for extracting and converting macroalgae into bioplastic. Some of the key challenges in the production of macroalgae bioplastics are the high costs of large-scale production and the need to optimize the extraction and conversion processes to obtain high-quality bioplastics. However, the potential benefits of using macroalgae for bioplastic production include reducing plastic waste and greenhouse gas emissions, using healthier materials in various life practices, and developing a promising area for future research and development. Also, bioplastic provides job opportunities in free enterprise and contributes to various applications such as packaging, medical devices, electronics, textiles, and cosmetics. The presented review aims to discuss the problem of petroleum-based plastic, bioplastic extraction from macroalgae, bioplastic properties, biodegradability, its various applications, and its production challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nehal E. Elkaliny
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt
| | - Nurah M. Alzamel
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Humanities, Shaqra University, Shaqra 11961, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shaaban H. Moussa
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Humanities, Shaqra University, Shaqra 11961, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nour I. Elodamy
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt
| | - Engy A. Madkor
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt
| | - Esraa M. Ibrahim
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt
| | - Mostafa E. Elshobary
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt
| | - Gehan A. Ismail
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt
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Veríssimo SN, Cunha SC, Fernandes JO, Casero M, Ramos JA, Norte AC, Paiva VH. Dynamics and effects of plastic contaminants' assimilation in gulls. MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 196:106396. [PMID: 38341982 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2024.106396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers are persistent disrupters assimilated by organisms, yet little is known about their link to plastic ingestion and health effects. In an experiment, two groups of yellow-legged/lesser black-backed gulls (Larus michahellis/Larus fuscus) were fed plastics with BDE99 to assess leaching into brain, preen oil, liver and fat tissues and evaluate effects on health and stress parameters. Although most plastic was regurgitated, we observed a clear relation between plastic ingestion and chemical leaching. BDE99 exhibited higher levels in brain tissue of gulls from the plastic groups. Also, only values of cholinesterases measured in plasma were significantly reduced in the 'plastic' groups. Cholinesterase activity in the brain also tended to decrease, suggesting a negative effect in gulls' neurofunction. Results indicate that chemical leaching occurs, even when plastics stay in the stomach for a short period of time and showed that this can affect gulls' health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara N Veríssimo
- University of Coimbra, MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre / ARNET - Aquatic Research Network, Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Sara C Cunha
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Bromatology and Hydrology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua Jorge de Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
| | - José O Fernandes
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Bromatology and Hydrology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua Jorge de Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
| | - María Casero
- Wildlife Rehabilitation and Investigation Center (RIAS) - Associação ALDEIA, Ria Formosa Natural Park, Olhão, Portugal
| | - Jaime A Ramos
- University of Coimbra, MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre / ARNET - Aquatic Research Network, Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana C Norte
- University of Coimbra, MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre / ARNET - Aquatic Research Network, Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Vitor H Paiva
- University of Coimbra, MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre / ARNET - Aquatic Research Network, Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456, Coimbra, Portugal
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Choi J, Kim H, Ahn YR, Kim M, Yu S, Kim N, Lim SY, Park JA, Ha SJ, Lim KS, Kim HO. Recent advances in microbial and enzymatic engineering for the biodegradation of micro- and nanoplastics. RSC Adv 2024; 14:9943-9966. [PMID: 38528920 PMCID: PMC10961967 DOI: 10.1039/d4ra00844h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
This review examines the escalating issue of plastic pollution, specifically highlighting the detrimental effects on the environment and human health caused by microplastics and nanoplastics. The extensive use of synthetic polymers such as polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and polystyrene (PS) has raised significant environmental concerns because of their long-lasting and non-degradable characteristics. This review delves into the role of enzymatic and microbial strategies in breaking down these polymers, showcasing recent advancements in the field. The intricacies of enzymatic degradation are thoroughly examined, including the effectiveness of enzymes such as PETase and MHETase, as well as the contribution of microbial pathways in breaking down resilient polymers into more benign substances. The paper also discusses the impact of chemical composition on plastic degradation kinetics and emphasizes the need for an approach to managing the environmental impact of synthetic polymers. The review highlights the significance of comprehending the physical characteristics and long-term impacts of micro- and nanoplastics in different ecosystems. Furthermore, it points out the environmental and health consequences of these contaminants, such as their ability to cause cancer and interfere with the endocrine system. The paper emphasizes the need for advanced analytical methods and effective strategies for enzymatic degradation, as well as continued research and development in this area. This review highlights the crucial role of enzymatic and microbial strategies in addressing plastic pollution and proposes methods to create effective and environmentally friendly solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaewon Choi
- Division of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering, College of Art, Culture and Engineering, Kangwon National University Chuncheon Korea
- Department of Smart Health Science and Technology, Kangwon National University Chuncheon Korea
| | - Hongbin Kim
- Division of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering, College of Art, Culture and Engineering, Kangwon National University Chuncheon Korea
- Department of Smart Health Science and Technology, Kangwon National University Chuncheon Korea
| | - Yu-Rim Ahn
- Division of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering, College of Art, Culture and Engineering, Kangwon National University Chuncheon Korea
- Department of Smart Health Science and Technology, Kangwon National University Chuncheon Korea
| | - Minse Kim
- Division of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering, College of Art, Culture and Engineering, Kangwon National University Chuncheon Korea
- Department of Smart Health Science and Technology, Kangwon National University Chuncheon Korea
| | - Seona Yu
- Division of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering, College of Art, Culture and Engineering, Kangwon National University Chuncheon Korea
- Department of Smart Health Science and Technology, Kangwon National University Chuncheon Korea
| | - Nanhyeon Kim
- Division of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering, College of Art, Culture and Engineering, Kangwon National University Chuncheon Korea
- Department of Smart Health Science and Technology, Kangwon National University Chuncheon Korea
| | - Su Yeon Lim
- Division of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering, College of Art, Culture and Engineering, Kangwon National University Chuncheon Korea
- Department of Smart Health Science and Technology, Kangwon National University Chuncheon Korea
| | - Jeong-Ann Park
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Kangwon National University Chuncheon 24341 Republic of Korea
| | - Suk-Jin Ha
- Division of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering, College of Art, Culture and Engineering, Kangwon National University Chuncheon Korea
- Department of Smart Health Science and Technology, Kangwon National University Chuncheon Korea
| | - Kwang Suk Lim
- Division of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering, College of Art, Culture and Engineering, Kangwon National University Chuncheon Korea
- Department of Smart Health Science and Technology, Kangwon National University Chuncheon Korea
| | - Hyun-Ouk Kim
- Division of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering, College of Art, Culture and Engineering, Kangwon National University Chuncheon Korea
- Department of Smart Health Science and Technology, Kangwon National University Chuncheon Korea
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Aranda DA, Sindou P, Cauich Rodriguez JV, Saldaña GM, Coronado RFV, González WDN, Díaz ME, Escalante VC. A non-invasive method of microplastics pollution quantification in green sea turtle Chelonia mydas of the Mexican Caribbean. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 200:116092. [PMID: 38359479 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Due to the amply exposure of marine turtles to marine plastic pollution, this is a reason that the green sea turtle Chelonia mydas makes a good candidate species as a bioindicator for plastic pollution. Turtle feces were collected at Isla Blanca on the northeast Caribbean coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico. Microplastic extraction was done following Hidalgo-Ruz et al. (2012) and Masura et al. (2015) methods. After organic matter degradation of the feces samples, microplastics were identified and quantified by stereomicroscope. Their morphostructure was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, while their composition was determined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy. Microplastics (MP) abundance ranged from 10 ± 2 MP·g-1 to 89 ± 3 MP·g-1. Kruskal Wallis test (KW = 70.31, p < 0.001) showed a significant difference between 22 green turtles analyzed. Most of the microplastics were fiber type. Blue, purple, and transparent fibers were the most abundant. The identified microplastics were nylon (polyamide), PVC, polypropylene, polyester, and viscose (cellulose). The non-invasive method used here allowed the detection of microplastic pollution and is promising for long-term microplastic pollution monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalila Aldana Aranda
- Recursos del Mar, Cinvestav IPN Mérida, Antigua Carretera a Progreso Km. 6, 97310 Mérida, Yucatan, Mexico.
| | - Pauline Sindou
- Recursos del Mar, Cinvestav IPN Mérida, Antigua Carretera a Progreso Km. 6, 97310 Mérida, Yucatan, Mexico; Université des Antilles, Campus Fouillole, BP 250, 97157 Pointe-á-Pitre, Guadeloupe
| | - Juan V Cauich Rodriguez
- Unidad de Materiales, Centro de Investigación Científica de Yucatán, Col. Chuburná de Hidalgo, 97205 Merida, Yucatan, Mexico
| | | | - Rossana Faride Vargas Coronado
- Unidad de Materiales, Centro de Investigación Científica de Yucatán, Col. Chuburná de Hidalgo, 97205 Merida, Yucatan, Mexico
| | | | - Martha Enríquez Díaz
- Recursos del Mar, Cinvestav IPN Mérida, Antigua Carretera a Progreso Km. 6, 97310 Mérida, Yucatan, Mexico
| | - Víctor Castillo Escalante
- Recursos del Mar, Cinvestav IPN Mérida, Antigua Carretera a Progreso Km. 6, 97310 Mérida, Yucatan, Mexico
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6
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Kong J, Lee J, Jeong S. Distribution of microplastics in rainfall and their control by a permeable pavement in low-impact development facility. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 351:119710. [PMID: 38061101 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.119710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) released from plastic products in daily life are present in the air and could be transported to freshwater environments along with rain. Recently, low-impact development (LID) facilities, such as permeable pavements, have been used to treat non-point source pollutants, including rainfall runoff. While runoff is treated by LID facilities, the periodic monitoring of MPs in rainfall and the efficiency of removal of MPs through LID facilities have rarely been investigated. Therefore, this case study focused on monitoring MPs in rainwater runoff and permeate from a permeable pavement in Busan, South Korea, thus evaluating the removal efficiency of MPs by a LID system. The initial rainfall runoff and permeate through the LID system were sampled, and the amounts, types, sizes, and shapes of MPs in the samples were analyzed using micro-Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The results showed that the distribution of MPs in the initial rainfall was affected by population in tested area. Polyethylene was the most common type of MPs in all the samples. Polyamide was only found in the LID samples because of the pollution caused by water flows and pavement materials. Fragment type MPs was most commonly observed and consisted of relatively small-sized (under 100 μm) particles. LID facilities were able to capture approximately 98% of MPs in the rainfall through a filtration process in the permeable pavement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiwon Kong
- Civil and Environmental Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Jieun Lee
- Institute for Environment and Energy, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea.
| | - Sanghyun Jeong
- Civil and Environmental Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea.
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7
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Strudwick P, Camp EF, Seymour J, Roper C, Edmondson J, Howlett L, Suggett DJ. Impacts of plastic-free materials on coral-associated bacterial communities during reef restoration. ENVIRONMENTAL MICROBIOLOGY REPORTS 2024; 16:e13229. [PMID: 38192237 PMCID: PMC10866064 DOI: 10.1111/1758-2229.13229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Coral propagation and out-planting based restoration approaches are increasingly being applied to assist natural recovery of coral reefs. However, many restoration methods rely on plastic zip-ties to secure coral material which is potentially problematic for the marine environment. Plastic-free biodegradable alternatives may however pose unique risks to coral-associated bacterial communities integral to coral health. Therefore, to identify whether biodegradable materials differentially impact coral-associated bacterial communities we examined Acropora millepora coral-associated bacterial communities during propagation in two experiments on the Great Barrier Reef. Coral fragments were secured to coral nurseries with conventional plastic, metal, or biodegradable (polyester and polycaprolactone) ties. Tie failure and coral-associated bacterial communities were then characterized over six months. Minimal coral mortality was observed (3.6%-8%) and all ties had low failure rates (0%-4.2%) except for biodegradable polyester ties (29.2% failure). No differences were observed between coral-associated bacterial communities of fragments secured with different ties, and no proliferation of putatively pathogenic bacteria was recorded. Overall, our findings suggest that reducing reliance on conventional plastic is feasible through transitions to biodegradable materials, without any notable impacts on coral-associated bacterial communities. However, we caution the need to examine more coral taxa of different morphologies and new plastic-free materials prior to application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paige Strudwick
- Faculty of Science, Climate Change ClusterUniversity of Technology SydneyUltimoNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Emma F. Camp
- Faculty of Science, Climate Change ClusterUniversity of Technology SydneyUltimoNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Justin Seymour
- Faculty of Science, Climate Change ClusterUniversity of Technology SydneyUltimoNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Christine Roper
- Faculty of Science, Climate Change ClusterUniversity of Technology SydneyUltimoNew South WalesAustralia
| | | | - Lorna Howlett
- Faculty of Science, Climate Change ClusterUniversity of Technology SydneyUltimoNew South WalesAustralia
| | - David J. Suggett
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)ThuwalKingdom of Saudi Arabia
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Rose DLG, Hudson MD, Bray S, Gaca P. Assessment of the estuarine shoreline microplastics and mesoplastics of the River Itchen, Southampton (UK) for contaminants and for their interaction with invertebrate fauna. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:6437-6459. [PMID: 38150160 PMCID: PMC10799153 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-31396-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
The presence of shoreline microplastics (1-5 mm) and mesoplastics (5-25 mm) in estuarine ecosystems is ubiquitous, but there remains little data on their composition, contamination status and ecological impacts. Chessel Bay Nature Reserve, situated in the internationally protected Itchen Estuary in Southampton, UK, has serious issues with shoreline plastic accumulation. In evaluating potentially adverse ecological impacts, the influence of quantities of shoreline microplastic (mp) and mesoplastic (MeP) material and adsorbed contaminants (PAHs and trace metals) on the biometrics and population dynamics of the burrowing supralittoral amphipod, Orchestia gammarellus, was assessed in this study. mp/MeP concentrations were variable in surface (0-42%: 0-422,640 mg/kg dry sediment) and subsurface horizons (0.001-10%: 11-97,797 mg/kg dry sediment). Secondary microplastics accounted for 77% of the total microplastic load (dominated by fragments and foams), but also comprised 23% nurdles/pellets (primary microplastics). Sorption mechanisms between contaminants and natural sediments were proposed to be the main contributor to the retention of PAHs and trace metal contaminants and less so, by mp/MeP. O. gammarellus populations showed a positive correlation with microplastic concentrations (Spearman correlation, R = 0.665, p = 0.036). Some reported toxicological thresholds were exceeded in sediments, but no impacts related to chemical contaminant concentrations were demonstrated. This study highlights a protected site with the severe plastic contamination, and the difficulty in demonstrating in situ ecotoxicological impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deanna L G Rose
- School of Geography and Environmental Science, University of Southampton, Highfield, Southampton, SO17 1BK, UK
| | - Malcolm D Hudson
- School of Geography and Environmental Science, University of Southampton, Highfield, Southampton, SO17 1BK, UK.
| | - Sargent Bray
- National Oceanography Centre, University of Southampton, European Way, Southampton, SO14 3ZH, UK
| | - Pawel Gaca
- National Oceanography Centre, University of Southampton, European Way, Southampton, SO14 3ZH, UK
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Chemello G, Trotta E, Notarstefano V, Papetti L, Di Renzo L, Matiddi M, Silvestri C, Carnevali O, Gioacchini G. Microplastics evidence in yolk and liver of loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta), a pilot study. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 337:122589. [PMID: 37734631 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
The potential toxicity of microplastics is a growing concern for the scientific community. The loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) is particularly inclined to accidently ingest plastic and microplastic due to its long-life cycle features. The possible transfer of microplastics from the female to the eggs should be investigated. The present study investigated the presence of microplastics in yolk and liver samples evaluating the number of melanomacrophages in the hepatic tissue as a possible biomarker of microplastics impact on the embryonic health status. The biometric parameters and liver histological analysis of 27 and 48 embryos (from two different nests respectively) at the 30 stage of development were analyzed. Raman Microspectroscopy was performed to identify the microplastics after alkaline digestion (10% KOH) of yolk and portion of liver from 5 embryos at the 30 developmental stage per nest. Microplastics were found in yolk and liver of loggerhead sea turtles at late embryonic stage for the first time. All microplastics were smaller than 5 μm and were made of polymers and colors suggesting their diverse origins. A total number of 21 microplastics, with dimensions lower than 5 μm, were found between the two nests (11 and 10 microplastics respectively). Only two shape categories were identified: spheres and fragments. The most frequent polymers observed were polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (31.5%, 21.1% and 15.8% respectively). Despite the eggs showing a higher number of microplastics in yolk samples than liver (15 and 6 microplastics in yolk and liver respectively), a positive correlation was observed only between the number of melanomacrophages (r = 0.863 p < 0.001) and microplastics in the liver. This result may suggest that microplastics could exert some effects on the hepatic tissues. Future studies should investigate this aspect and the possible relation between microplastics and other stress biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Chemello
- Department of Environmental and Life Science (DISVA), Polytechnic University of Marche, 60131, Ancona, Italy.
| | - Erica Trotta
- Department of Environmental and Life Science (DISVA), Polytechnic University of Marche, 60131, Ancona, Italy.
| | - Valentina Notarstefano
- Department of Environmental and Life Science (DISVA), Polytechnic University of Marche, 60131, Ancona, Italy.
| | - Luana Papetti
- CRTM, TartAmare Onlus, 85100, Marina di Grosseto, Italy.
| | - Ludovica Di Renzo
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Dell'Abruzzo e Del Molise "G. Caporale", 64100, Teramo, Italy; Centro Studi Cetacei, 65125, Pescara, Italy.
| | - Marco Matiddi
- Centro Nazionale per La Rete Nazionale Dei Laboratori CN-LAB, Istituto Superiore per La Ricerca e La Protezione Ambientale (ISPRA), 00144, Roma, Italy.
| | - Cecilia Silvestri
- Centro Nazionale per La Rete Nazionale Dei Laboratori CN-LAB, Istituto Superiore per La Ricerca e La Protezione Ambientale (ISPRA), 00144, Roma, Italy.
| | - Oliana Carnevali
- Department of Environmental and Life Science (DISVA), Polytechnic University of Marche, 60131, Ancona, Italy.
| | - Giorgia Gioacchini
- Department of Environmental and Life Science (DISVA), Polytechnic University of Marche, 60131, Ancona, Italy.
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10
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Bayo J, López-Castellanos J, Olmos S, Rojo D. Characterization and removal efficiencies of microplastics discharged from sewage treatment plants in Southeast Spain. WATER RESEARCH 2023; 244:120479. [PMID: 37634462 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.120479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are ubiquitous pollutants that can effectively harm different ecosystems. The information on the relative contribution of wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) to the surrounding environment is important, in order to understand ecological health risks and implement measures to reduce their presence. This focus article presents a quantitative assessment on the relative concentration and types of MPs delivered from four WWTPs located at the Southeast of Spain. Samples from WWTPs were collected throughout a four-year period, comprising more than 1,200 L of analyzed wastewater and 3,215 microparticles isolated. Density extraction with 1.08 g/mL NaCl salt solution was systematically used as the main separation method, in a simple and reliable manner, and repeat extraction cycles did not play any significant impact on the study outcomes. The four WWTPs had removal efficiencies between 64.3% and 89.2% after primary, secondary, and tertiary treatment phases, without diurnal or daily variations. Advanced treatment methods displayed a lower removal rate for fibers than for particulate MPs. The abundance of MPs was always higher and with a lower mean size in wastewater samples collected in Autumn than for the rest of seasons. MPs dumped from WWTPs in large quantities into the environment are meant to be regarded as an important point source for aquatic and terrestrial environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Bayo
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Cartagena, Paseo Alfonso XIII 44 E-30203 Cartagena, Spain.
| | - Joaquín López-Castellanos
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Cartagena, Paseo Alfonso XIII 44 E-30203 Cartagena, Spain
| | - Sonia Olmos
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Cartagena, Paseo Alfonso XIII 44 E-30203 Cartagena, Spain
| | - Dolores Rojo
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Cartagena, Paseo Alfonso XIII 44 E-30203 Cartagena, Spain
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11
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Osman AI, Hosny M, Eltaweil AS, Omar S, Elgarahy AM, Farghali M, Yap PS, Wu YS, Nagandran S, Batumalaie K, Gopinath SCB, John OD, Sekar M, Saikia T, Karunanithi P, Hatta MHM, Akinyede KA. Microplastic sources, formation, toxicity and remediation: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY LETTERS 2023; 21:1-41. [PMID: 37362012 PMCID: PMC10072287 DOI: 10.1007/s10311-023-01593-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution is becoming a major issue for human health due to the recent discovery of microplastics in most ecosystems. Here, we review the sources, formation, occurrence, toxicity and remediation methods of microplastics. We distinguish ocean-based and land-based sources of microplastics. Microplastics have been found in biological samples such as faeces, sputum, saliva, blood and placenta. Cancer, intestinal, pulmonary, cardiovascular, infectious and inflammatory diseases are induced or mediated by microplastics. Microplastic exposure during pregnancy and maternal period is also discussed. Remediation methods include coagulation, membrane bioreactors, sand filtration, adsorption, photocatalytic degradation, electrocoagulation and magnetic separation. Control strategies comprise reducing plastic usage, behavioural change, and using biodegradable plastics. Global plastic production has risen dramatically over the past 70 years to reach 359 million tonnes. China is the world's top producer, contributing 17.5% to global production, while Turkey generates the most plastic waste in the Mediterranean region, at 144 tonnes per day. Microplastics comprise 75% of marine waste, with land-based sources responsible for 80-90% of pollution, while ocean-based sources account for only 10-20%. Microplastics induce toxic effects on humans and animals, such as cytotoxicity, immune response, oxidative stress, barrier attributes, and genotoxicity, even at minimal dosages of 10 μg/mL. Ingestion of microplastics by marine animals results in alterations in gastrointestinal tract physiology, immune system depression, oxidative stress, cytotoxicity, differential gene expression, and growth inhibition. Furthermore, bioaccumulation of microplastics in the tissues of aquatic organisms can have adverse effects on the aquatic ecosystem, with potential transmission of microplastics to humans and birds. Changing individual behaviours and governmental actions, such as implementing bans, taxes, or pricing on plastic carrier bags, has significantly reduced plastic consumption to 8-85% in various countries worldwide. The microplastic minimisation approach follows an upside-down pyramid, starting with prevention, followed by reducing, reusing, recycling, recovering, and ending with disposal as the least preferable option.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed I. Osman
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, David Keir Building, Queen’s University Belfast, Stranmillis Road, Belfast, BT9 5AG Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Mohamed Hosny
- Green Technology Group, Environmental Sciences Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, 21511 Egypt
| | | | - Sara Omar
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Ahmed M. Elgarahy
- Environmental Science Department, Faculty of Science, Port Said University, Port Said, Egypt
- Egyptian Propylene and Polypropylene Company (EPPC), Port-Said, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Farghali
- Department of Agricultural Engineering and Socio-Economics, Kobe University, Kobe, 657-8501 Japan
- Department of Animal and Poultry Hygiene & Environmental Sanitation, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, 71526 Egypt
| | - Pow-Seng Yap
- Department of Civil Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou, 215123 China
| | - Yuan-Seng Wu
- Centre for Virus and Vaccine Research, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor Malaysia
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor Malaysia
| | - Saraswathi Nagandran
- Centre for Virus and Vaccine Research, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor Malaysia
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor Malaysia
| | - Kalaivani Batumalaie
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Asia Metropolitan University, 81750 Johor Bahru, Malaysia
| | - Subash C. B. Gopinath
- Faculty of Chemical Engineering & Technology, Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP), 02600 Arau, Perlis Malaysia
- Institute of Nano Electronic Engineering, Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP), 01000 Kangar, Perlis, Malaysia
- Micro System Technology, Centre of Excellence, Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP), Pauh Campus, 02600 Arau, Perlis Malaysia
| | - Oliver Dean John
- Faculty of Science and Natural Resources, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Malaysia
| | - Mahendran Sekar
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Royal College of Medicine Perak, Universiti Kuala Lumpur, 30450 Ipoh, Perak Malaysia
| | - Trideep Saikia
- Girijananda Chowdhury Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Guwahati Assam, India
| | - Puvanan Karunanithi
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Manipal University College Malaysia (MUCM), Melaka, Malaysia
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Hayrie Mohd Hatta
- Centre for Research and Development, Asia Metropolitan University, 81750 Johor Bahru, Johor Malaysia
| | - Kolajo Adedamola Akinyede
- Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, Cape Town, 7530 South Africa
- Biochemistry Unit, Department of Science Technology, The Federal Polytechnic, P.M.B.5351, Ado Ekiti, 360231 Ekiti State Nigeria
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12
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Alvarez-Andrade A, Wakida FT, Piñon-Colin TDJ, Wakida-Kusunoki AT, Castillo-Quiñones JE, García-Flores E. Microplastic abundance in feces of lagomorphs in relation to urbanization. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 864:161025. [PMID: 36584950 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.161025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The presence of microplastics (MPs) in marine environments has been extensively documented. However, studies of terrestrial species are scarce. Fecal samples (105) of lagomorphs were collected at sites with different levels of urbanization in the Baja California Chaparral and analyzed to quantify and characterize MPs found in the feces. The lagomorph species recorded in the study area are the desert cottontail rabbit (Sylvilagus audubonii), brush rabbit (Sylvilagus bachmani), and black-tailed jackrabbit (Lepus californicus), which play important roles in the food web of the chaparral ecosystem. Microplastics were identified using attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Microplastics were detected in 49 % of the samples, with fibers being the dominant shape found (72 %). Most (75 %) of the MPs were <1 mm in size, with a mean length of 0.93 ± 0.99 mm (median 0.60 mm, range 0.02 - <5 mm). Polyamide was the dominant polymer (54 %), indicating that MPs are likely derived from textiles; polyethylene was also abundant (27 %). A difference was also observed in the abundance of MPs in feces from sites with different levels of urbanization, with the highest abundance in feces from the urban sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Alvarez-Andrade
- Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Calzada Universidad 14418, Parque Industrial Internacional Tijuana, C.P. 22390 Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico
| | - Fernando T Wakida
- Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Calzada Universidad 14418, Parque Industrial Internacional Tijuana, C.P. 22390 Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico.
| | - Teresita de Jesus Piñon-Colin
- Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Calzada Universidad 14418, Parque Industrial Internacional Tijuana, C.P. 22390 Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico
| | - Armando T Wakida-Kusunoki
- Instituto Nacional de Pesca y Acuacultura, Centro Regional de Investigación Acuícola y Pesquera de Yucaltepén, Boulevard del Pescador s/n, esquina Antigua Carretera a Chelem, Pogreso, Yucatán, CP 97320. Mexico
| | - Javier Emmanuel Castillo-Quiñones
- Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Calzada Universidad 14418, Parque Industrial Internacional Tijuana, C.P. 22390 Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico
| | - Enrique García-Flores
- Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Calzada Universidad 14418, Parque Industrial Internacional Tijuana, C.P. 22390 Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico
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13
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Parsaeimehr A, Miller CM, Ozbay G. Microplastics and their interactions with microbiota. Heliyon 2023; 9:e15104. [PMID: 37089279 PMCID: PMC10113872 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e15104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
As a new pollutant, Microplastics (MPs) are globally known for their negative impacts on different ecosystems and living organisms. MPs are easily taken up by the ecosystem in a variety of organisms due to their small size, and cause immunological, neurological, and respiratory diseases in the impacted organism. Moreover, in the impacted environments, MPs can release toxic additives and act as a vector and scaffold for colonization and transportation of specific microbes and lead to imbalances in microbiota and the biogeochemical and nutrients dynamic. To address the concerns on controlling the MPs pollution on the microbiota and ecosystem, the microbial biodegradation of MPs can be potentially considered as an effective environment friendly approach. The objectives of the presented paper are to provide information on the toxicological effects of MPs on microbiota, to discuss the negative impacts of microbial colonization of MPs, and to introduce the microbes with biodegradation ability of MPs.
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14
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Ashrafy A, Liza AA, Islam MN, Billah MM, Arafat ST, Rahman MM, Rahman SM. Microplastics Pollution: A Brief Review of Its Source and Abundance in Different Aquatic Ecosystems. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS ADVANCES 2023; 9:100215. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hazadv.2022.100215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
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15
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Miller ME, Motti CA, Hamann M, Kroon FJ. Assessment of microplastic bioconcentration, bioaccumulation and biomagnification in a simple coral reef food web. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 858:159615. [PMID: 36309288 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.159615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Plastics, and more specifically, microplastics (MPs, <5 mm) are considered a marine contaminant of emerging concern. To accurately assess the ecological risk of MPs, it is critical to first understand the relationship between MP contamination in organisms with that in their surrounding environment. The goal of this study was to examine the ecological risk of MPs in coral reef ecosystems by assessing the MP contamination found within a simple food web against contamination in the surrounding environment. Taxa representing three trophic levels (zooplankton, benthic crustaceans, and reef fish), as well as the distinct environmental matrices which they inhabit (i.e., mid-column water and sediment) were collected from two mid-shelf reefs in the central Great Barrier Reef, Australia. Microplastics were isolated using validated clarification techniques, visually characterised (i.e., shape, colour, size) by microscopy, chemically confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and recorded in all three trophic levels and all abiotic samples. MPs were found to bioconcentrate, with similar concentrations, polymer types, sizes, shapes, and colours at each trophic level compared to their surrounding environment. However, MP contamination varied across the three trophic levels, with no evidence of bioaccumulation. Further, MP concentrations did not increase up the food web, discounting MP biomagnification. Regardless, given the heterogeneity of MPs found in the marine environment, and the complexity of marine food webs, trophic transfer represents a prominent pathway of exposure from lower to higher trophic levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaela E Miller
- Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS), Townsville, Queensland 4810, Australia; AIMS@JCU, Division of Research and Innovation, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland 4811, Australia; College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland 4811, Australia.
| | - Cherie A Motti
- Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS), Townsville, Queensland 4810, Australia; AIMS@JCU, Division of Research and Innovation, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland 4811, Australia
| | - Mark Hamann
- College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland 4811, Australia
| | - Frederieke J Kroon
- Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS), Townsville, Queensland 4810, Australia; AIMS@JCU, Division of Research and Innovation, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland 4811, Australia
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16
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Pietroluongo G, Quintana Martín-Montalvo B, Antichi S, Miliou A, Costa V. First Assessment of Micro-Litter Ingested by Dolphins, Sea Turtles and Monk Seals Found Stranded along the Coasts of Samos Island, Greece. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12243499. [PMID: 36552419 PMCID: PMC9774117 DOI: 10.3390/ani12243499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
This study is the first to assess the occurrence of micro-litter ingested by marine megafauna in the north-eastern Aegean Sea. A total of 25 specimens from four species of marine mammals, including dolphins and monk seals, and two species of sea turtles, found stranded along the coastline of Samos Island, Greece, were selected for the analysis. Litter particles, identified as microplastics (MPs), were ubiquitous throughout all sections of the gastrointestinal tract (oesophagus, stomach and intestine) in all specimens. Overall, the MPs most frequently found were black fibres 0.21-0.50 mm in size. These results provide insight into the extent of micro-litter ingestion and contamination in marine vertebrates. Here we propose a method of standardisation to establish a baseline for marine taxa in this region of the Mediterranean Sea, where knowledge of the topic is still lacking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guido Pietroluongo
- Archipelagos Institute of Marine Conservation, P.O. Box 42, 83103 Pythagorio, Samos, Greece
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Viale dell’Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, Italy
- Correspondence: (G.P.); (V.C.)
| | | | - Simone Antichi
- Archipelagos Institute of Marine Conservation, P.O. Box 42, 83103 Pythagorio, Samos, Greece
- Departamento de Ciencias Marinas y Costeras, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California Sur, Sur KM 5.5, La Paz 23080, Mexico
| | - Anastasia Miliou
- Archipelagos Institute of Marine Conservation, P.O. Box 42, 83103 Pythagorio, Samos, Greece
| | - Valentina Costa
- Archipelagos Institute of Marine Conservation, P.O. Box 42, 83103 Pythagorio, Samos, Greece
- Department of Integrative Marine Ecology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn (SZN), Contrada Torre Spaccata, Località Torre Spaccata, 87071 Amendolara, Italy
- Correspondence: (G.P.); (V.C.)
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17
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Zavala-Félix KA, Reyes-López MA, Camacho-Sánchez FY, Acosta-Sánchez HH, Hart CE, Zavala-Norzagaray AA, Leal-Sepúlveda V, Leal-Moreno R, Espinoza-Romo BA, Aguirre AA, Ley-Quiñónez CP. Trace elements concentration in blood of nesting Kemp's Ridley turtles (Lepidochelys kempii) at Rancho Nuevo sanctuary, Tamaulipas, Mexico. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0269346. [PMID: 36322564 PMCID: PMC9629633 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0269346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The concentrations of trace elements including As, Zn, Cu, Se, Pb, Hg and Cd, were determined in the blood of nesting Kemp’s ridley turtles (Lepidochelys kempii) at Rancho Nuevo sanctuary, Tamaulipas, Mexico during 2018–2020. The sequential concentrations analyzed were Zn> Se> Cu> As> Pb; while Cd and Hg concentrations were below the limits of detection (0.01 μg g-1). No significant differences were observed between the concentrations of trace elements (p> 0.05) by year, except Se levels, possibly resulting from recorded seasonal differences in turtle size. No relationships among turtle size vs elements concentration were observed. In conclusion, essential and toxic trace elements concentrations in the blood of nesting Kemp’s ridley turtles may be a reflex of the ecosystem in which the turtles develop, that is, with low bioavailability of elements observed in the trophic webs in the Gulf of Mexico.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Alan Zavala-Félix
- Laboratory Vida Silvestre, CIIDIR Sinaloa- Department Medio Ambiente, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Guasave, Sinaloa, Mexico
| | - Miguel Angel Reyes-López
- Centro de Biotecnología Genómica-Conservation Medicine Laboratory, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Reynosa, Tamaulipas, Mexico
| | - Fátima Yedith Camacho-Sánchez
- Centro de Biotecnología Genómica-Conservation Medicine Laboratory, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Reynosa, Tamaulipas, Mexico
| | - Héctor Hugo Acosta-Sánchez
- Programa de Conservación de Tortugas Marinas en el Santuario Playa de Rancho Nuevo, Terra Asesoría Ambiental S.C., Ciudad Victoria, Mexico
| | - Catherine E. Hart
- Investigación, Capacitación y Soluciones Ambientales y Sociales AC, Tepic, Nayarit, México
| | - Alan A. Zavala-Norzagaray
- Laboratory Vida Silvestre, CIIDIR Sinaloa- Department Medio Ambiente, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Guasave, Sinaloa, Mexico
| | - Valeria Leal-Sepúlveda
- Laboratory Vida Silvestre, CIIDIR Sinaloa- Department Medio Ambiente, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Guasave, Sinaloa, Mexico
| | - Renato Leal-Moreno
- Laboratory Vida Silvestre, CIIDIR Sinaloa- Department Medio Ambiente, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Guasave, Sinaloa, Mexico
| | - Brenda Aracely Espinoza-Romo
- Laboratory Vida Silvestre, CIIDIR Sinaloa- Department Medio Ambiente, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Guasave, Sinaloa, Mexico
| | - A. Alonso Aguirre
- Warner College of Natural Resources, Michael Smith Natural Resources Building, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States of America
| | - César P. Ley-Quiñónez
- Laboratory Vida Silvestre, CIIDIR Sinaloa- Department Medio Ambiente, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Guasave, Sinaloa, Mexico
- * E-mail:
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18
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Cordova MR, Iskandar MR, Muhtadi A, Saville R, Riani E. Spatio-temporal variation and seasonal dynamics of stranded beach anthropogenic debris on Indonesian beach from the results of nationwide monitoring. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 182:114035. [PMID: 35973247 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.114035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The first stranded macrodebris study on a national scale in Indonesia was conducted on 18 beaches from February 2018 to December 2019. The average weight and abundance of beach debris were higher between October and February (rainy season). The highest stranded macrodebris was located in Ambon, Manado, Takalar, and Padang. Plastic (46.38 %) was the most prevalent type of debris across all macrodebris categories, with single-use plastics such as plastic sachets, plastic bags, and plastic bottles being the dominant macroplastic debris (64.64 %). Based on CCI, HII, and BGI, 18 beaches are "moderately clean," with few hazardous items observed, and "Good." This anthropogenic macrodebris is thought to be more localized (55 %) than transboundary macrodebris. Litter control and environmental quality of this Indonesian coastal region should be improved through a proactive and flexible approach. Finally, extensive stranded beach debris monitoring is recommended to better understand the distribution of macrodebris in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Reza Cordova
- Research Center for Oceanography, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) Republic of Indonesia, BRIN Kawasan Jakarta Ancol, Jalan Pasir Putih I, Ancol Timur, Jakarta 14430, Indonesia.
| | - Mochamad Riza Iskandar
- Research Center for Oceanography, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) Republic of Indonesia, BRIN Kawasan Jakarta Ancol, Jalan Pasir Putih I, Ancol Timur, Jakarta 14430, Indonesia.
| | - Ahmad Muhtadi
- Department of Aquatic Resources Management, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Jl. Prof. A. Sofyan No. 3, Medan 20215, Indonesia.
| | - Ramadhona Saville
- Laboratory of Management Informatics, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Setagaya Campus 1-1-1 Sakuragaoka, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 156-8502, Japan.
| | - Etty Riani
- Department of Aquatic Resources Management, Bogor Agricultural University, Jl. Agatis Kampus IPB Darmaga, Bogor, Jawa Barat 16680, Indonesia.
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19
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Solomando A, Pujol F, Sureda A, Pinya S. Ingestion and characterization of plastic debris by loggerhead sea turtle, Caretta caretta, in the Balearic Islands. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 826:154159. [PMID: 35231507 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.154159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Plastic waste has become ubiquitous pollutants in seas and oceans and can affect a wide range of species. For some marine species, plastic debris could pose a considerable threat through entanglement, ingestion, and habitat degradation and loss. Sea turtles are one of the most sensitive species, as their migratory behaviour and multifaceted life cycles make these reptiles especially vulnerable to the negative effects of plastic debris. The present study aimed to assess the amount and composition of plastic debris ingested by loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta, Linnaeus, 1758) in the Balearic Islands Sea, thusly providing new information to complete the knowledge for this topic. In this work, 45 stranded dead C. caretta specimens were necropsied, and their digestive tract content analysed for the presence of plastic debris. Plastic objects were observed in 27 individuals (60.0%), with an average of 12.7 ± 4.7 plastic items per turtle. Litter in the faecal pellet was also monitored in 67 living individuals, observing plastic elements in 46 (68.7%) of the specimens, reporting an average of 9.7 ± 3.3 plastic elements per individual. Overall, 785 plastic items were found, measured, weighed and categorized according to size, colour, shape, and type of polymer. The main elements ingested were plastic sheets that were found in 65.3% of the turtles analysed, being white (42.7%) and transparent (29.2%) the most predominant colours. Most elements were macroplastics (59.3%), while microplastics were not found. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometry (FT-IR) analysis showed that high-density polyethylene and polypropylene were the main polymer plastics, representing 42.3% and 33.8% of the total, respectively. In conclusion, the high occurrence of plastic debris determined in the present study evidenced for the first time plastic ingestion in loggerhead turtles in the Balearic Islands, and highlights C. caretta as a bioindicator organism for marine pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antònia Solomando
- Research Group in Community Nutrition and Oxidative Stress, University of Balearic Islands, E-07122 Palma de Mallorca, Balearic Islands, Spain; Interdisciplinary Ecology Group, Department of Biology, University of the Balearic Islands, E-07122 Palma de Mallorca, Balearic Islands, Spain.
| | - Francisca Pujol
- Palma Aquarium Foundation, Carrer Manuela de los Herreros i Sorà 21, 07610 Palma de Mallorca, Balearic Islands, Spain
| | - Antoni Sureda
- Research Group in Community Nutrition and Oxidative Stress, University of Balearic Islands, E-07122 Palma de Mallorca, Balearic Islands, Spain; CIBEROBN (Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition), University of the Balearic Islands, E-07122 Palma de Mallorca, Balearic Islands, Spain.
| | - Samuel Pinya
- Interdisciplinary Ecology Group, Department of Biology, University of the Balearic Islands, E-07122 Palma de Mallorca, Balearic Islands, Spain.
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20
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Furfaro G, D'Elia M, Mariano S, Trainito E, Solca M, Piraino S, Belmonte G. SEM/EDX analysis of stomach contents of a sea slug snacking on a polluted seafloor reveal microplastics as a component of its diet. Sci Rep 2022; 12:10244. [PMID: 35715497 PMCID: PMC9206003 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-14299-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the impacts of microplastics on living organisms in aquatic habitats is one of the hottest research topics worldwide. Despite increased attention, investigating microplastics in underwater environments remains a problematic task, due to the ubiquitous occurrence of microplastic, its multiple modes of interactions with the biota, and to the diversity of the synthetic organic polymers composing microplastics in the field. Several studies on microplastics focused on marine invertebrates, but to date, the benthic sea slugs (Mollusca, Gastropoda, Heterobranchia) were not yet investigated. Sea slugs are known to live on the organisms on which they feed on or to snack while gliding over the sea floor, but also as users of exogenous molecules or materials not only for nutrition. Therefore, they may represent a potential biological model to explore new modes of transformation and/or management of plastic, so far considered to be a non-biodegradable polymer. In this study we analysed the stomachal content of Bursatella leachii, an aplysiid heterobranch living in the Mar Piccolo, a highly polluted coastal basin near Taranto, in the northern part of the Ionian Sea. Microplastics were found in the stomachs of all the six sampled specimens, and SEM/EDX analyses were carried out to characterize the plastic debris. The SEM images and EDX spectra gathered here should be regarded as a baseline reference database for future investigations on marine Heterobranchia and their interactions with microplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Furfaro
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies - DiSTeBA, University of Salento, Via Prov.le Lecce-Monteroni, 73100, Lecce, Italy.
| | - Marcella D'Elia
- Department of Mathematics and Physics "Ennio de Giorgi", University of Salento, Via Prov.Le Lecce-Monteroni, 73100, Lecce, Italy
| | - Stefania Mariano
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies - DiSTeBA, University of Salento, Via Prov.le Lecce-Monteroni, 73100, Lecce, Italy
| | - Egidio Trainito
- Marine Protected Area 'Tavolara-Punta Coda Cavallo', Olbia, Italy
| | - Michele Solca
- Museo di Biologia Marina "Pietro Parenzan", Via Vespucci 13/17, Porto Cesareo, 73010, Lecce, Italy
| | - Stefano Piraino
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies - DiSTeBA, University of Salento, Via Prov.le Lecce-Monteroni, 73100, Lecce, Italy.,Museo di Biologia Marina "Pietro Parenzan", Via Vespucci 13/17, Porto Cesareo, 73010, Lecce, Italy.,Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze del Mare (CoNISMa), P.le Flaminio 9, 00198, Rome, Italy
| | - Genuario Belmonte
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies - DiSTeBA, University of Salento, Via Prov.le Lecce-Monteroni, 73100, Lecce, Italy.,Museo di Biologia Marina "Pietro Parenzan", Via Vespucci 13/17, Porto Cesareo, 73010, Lecce, Italy.,Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze del Mare (CoNISMa), P.le Flaminio 9, 00198, Rome, Italy
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21
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Wang S, Xie S, Zhang C, Pan Z, Sun D, Zhou A, Xu G, Zou J. Interactions effects of nano-microplastics and heavy metals in hybrid snakehead (Channa maculata ♀ × Channa argus ♂). FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2022; 124:74-81. [PMID: 35378307 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2022.03.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The interaction between microplastics and contaminants has potentially generated new undefined risks on animals and ecosystems, and nano-microplastics are considered to be more harmful than microplastics. This experiment investigated the interactions and effects of nano-microplastics with heavy metals cadmium in hybrid snakehead. Different concentrations of nano-microplastics 80 nm (50 μg/L and 500 μg/L) and Cd (50 μg/L) were used for exposure, and four sampling points were set for 24 h, 48 h, 96 h and clear-48 h. Results indicated that the morphology of gill was altered under the influence of nano-microplastics and cadmium, and the damage was aggravated with time. Nano-microplastics and Cd can cause oxidative damage to fish liver partly by effect the activities of antioxidant enzyme, and significantly suppressed the expressions of genes related to the inflammation (IL-1β and TNF-α) and as well as significantly up-regulated the expression of genes HSP70 and SOD. Additionally, the mRNA levels of MT gene can be speculated that the heavy metal cadmium may accumulated in the body over time. And the concentration of heavy metals will also affect their accumulation in the body. Our study elucidated the nano-microplastics and Cd will increase the impact on environmental and organisms that the nano-microplastics contribute to the bioaccumulation of metals, which served as a new support for study the interaction between environmental contaminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaodan Wang
- Joint Laboratory of Guangdong Province and Hong Kong Region on Marine Bioresource Conservation and Exploitation, College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China.
| | - Shaolin Xie
- Joint Laboratory of Guangdong Province and Hong Kong Region on Marine Bioresource Conservation and Exploitation, College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China; Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China.
| | - Chaonan Zhang
- Joint Laboratory of Guangdong Province and Hong Kong Region on Marine Bioresource Conservation and Exploitation, College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China.
| | - Zhengkun Pan
- Joint Laboratory of Guangdong Province and Hong Kong Region on Marine Bioresource Conservation and Exploitation, College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China.
| | - Di Sun
- Joint Laboratory of Guangdong Province and Hong Kong Region on Marine Bioresource Conservation and Exploitation, College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China.
| | - Aiguo Zhou
- Joint Laboratory of Guangdong Province and Hong Kong Region on Marine Bioresource Conservation and Exploitation, College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China; Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China.
| | - Guohuan Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Microbiology Southern China, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Microbial Culture Collection and Application, Institute of Microbiology, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510070, China.
| | - Jixing Zou
- Joint Laboratory of Guangdong Province and Hong Kong Region on Marine Bioresource Conservation and Exploitation, College of Marine Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China; Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China.
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22
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Moon Y, Shim WJ, Han GM, Jeong J, Cho Y, Kim IH, Kim MS, Lee HR, Hong SH. What type of plastic do sea turtles in Korean waters mainly ingest? Quantity, shape, color, size, polymer composition, and original usage. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 298:118849. [PMID: 35032602 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.118849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Globally, sea turtles are at high risk of ingesting plastic. However, research on plastic ingestion by sea turtles in East Asia is scant, and no quantitative or qualitative investigation has been conducted in Korean waters. This study examined the plastic ingestion of sea turtles stranded, floating, or incidentally captured in Korean waters between 2012 and 2018. The quantity, shape, color, size, polymer type, and original usage of plastic debris (>1 mm) ingested by sea turtles were analyzed after being sorted from the gastrointestinal tracts of 34 turtles (21 loggerheads (Caretta caretta), 9 green turtles (Chelonia mydas), 2 leatherbacks (Dermochelys coriacea), and 2 olive ridleys (Lepidochelys olivacea)). The ingestion frequencies of greens, loggerheads, olive ridleys, and leatherbacks were 100%, 81%, 50%, and 50%, respectively. The mean amount of plastic ingested was 108 ± 253 mg/kg (38 ± 61 n/ind.). The ingested debris tended to be films and fibers (>80%), light in color (white and transparent; 65%), and light polymers (polyethylene, polypropylene, polypropylene [poly (ethylene:propylene)], expanded polystyrene; 93%). The original uses were identified for 187 pieces; single-use plastics (e.g., plastic bag and packaging) and fishing and aquaculture items (e.g., twine and net) were found to dominate. Green turtles (264 ± 433 mg/kg) ingested significantly higher amounts of plastic than loggerheads (72.8 ± 156 mg/kg). Green turtles ingested mostly fibers (51%), such as rope, twine, and net, while loggerheads ingested largely films (61%), such as plastic bags and packaging. Interspecies differences in quantities and shapes of ingested debris may be related to their distinct feeding habits and geographical range of movement. The present study demonstrates that sea turtles foraging in Korean waters are considerably affected by marine plastic debris, and indicates that proper waste management of single-use plastics and fishing gears is urgently needed to mitigate the damage that plastic debris causes to marine wildlife.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yelim Moon
- Oil and POPs Research Group, Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Geoje, Republic of Korea; Department of Ocean Science, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon, 34113, Republic of Korea
| | - Won Joon Shim
- Oil and POPs Research Group, Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Geoje, Republic of Korea; Department of Ocean Science, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon, 34113, Republic of Korea
| | - Gi Myung Han
- Oil and POPs Research Group, Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Geoje, Republic of Korea
| | - Jongwook Jeong
- Oil and POPs Research Group, Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Geoje, Republic of Korea; Department of Ocean Science, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon, 34113, Republic of Korea
| | - Youna Cho
- Oil and POPs Research Group, Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Geoje, Republic of Korea; Department of Ocean Science, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon, 34113, Republic of Korea
| | - Il-Hun Kim
- National Marine Biodiversity Institute of Korea, Seochun-gun, Republic of Korea
| | - Min-Seop Kim
- National Marine Biodiversity Institute of Korea, Seochun-gun, Republic of Korea
| | - Hae-Rim Lee
- National Institute of Ecology, Seochun-gun, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Hee Hong
- Oil and POPs Research Group, Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Geoje, Republic of Korea; Department of Ocean Science, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon, 34113, Republic of Korea.
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23
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Dang F, Wang Q, Huang Y, Wang Y, Xing B. Key knowledge gaps for One Health approach to mitigate nanoplastic risks. ECO-ENVIRONMENT & HEALTH (ONLINE) 2022; 1:11-22. [PMID: 38078201 PMCID: PMC10702905 DOI: 10.1016/j.eehl.2022.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2023]
Abstract
There are increasing concerns over the threat of nanoplastics to environmental and human health. However, multidisciplinary barriers persist between the communities assessing the risks to environmental and human health. As a result, the hazards and risks of nanoplastics remain uncertain. Here, we identify key knowledge gaps by evaluating the exposure of nanoplastics in the environment, assessing their bio-nano interactions, and examining their potential risks to humans and the environment. We suggest considering nanoplastics a complex and dynamic mixture of polymers, additives, and contaminants, with interconnected risks to environmental and human health. We call for comprehensive integration of One Health approach to produce robust multidisciplinary evidence to nanoplastics threats at the planetary level. Although there are many challenges, this holistic approach incorporates the relevance of environmental exposure and multi-sectoral responses, which provide the opportunity to identify the risk mitigation strategies of nanoplastics to build resilient health systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Dang
- Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Qingyu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yingnan Huang
- Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Yujun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Baoshan Xing
- Stockbridge School of Agriculture, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, United States
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24
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Choudhary S, Neelavanan K, Saalim SM. Microplastics in the surface sediments of Krossfjord-Kongsfjord system, Svalbard, Arctic. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 176:113452. [PMID: 35183020 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Krossfjord-Kongsfjord system in the European Arctic has been assessed for abundance, source and distribution of microplastics in the surface sediments. The average abundance of microplastics in Krossfjord and Kongsfjord is 721.42 ± 217.89 (n = 5) pieces/kg and 783 ± 530.28 (n = 8) pieces/kg. Polymers like polyethylene and polypropylene are abundant in the sediment samples. Fibers are the most common shape of plastic particles. A high abundance of smaller plastic particles in the sediment may be due to the fragmentation of larger plastic particles during transportation. The microplastics' spatial distribution, shape, size, and composition suggest that the long-range transport by west Spitsbergen current and local inputs from anthropogenic activities are possible sources of microplastics found in the study area. Our results exhibit the presence of microplastic pollution, suggesting the influence of anthropogenic activity in the Arctic fjord and the need to control/reduce marine pollution which has become a potential threat to marine organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shabnam Choudhary
- Ministry of Earth Sciences, New Delhi, India; National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Goa, India.
| | | | - Syed Mohammad Saalim
- National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Goa, India
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25
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Li W, Pan Z, Xu J, Liu Q, Zou Q, Lin H, Wu L, Huang H. Microplastics in a pelagic dolphinfish (Coryphaena hippurus) from the Eastern Pacific Ocean and the implications for fish health. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 809:151126. [PMID: 34688764 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.151126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2021] [Revised: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution in fish is a growing concern worldwide due to its implication for human health. Microplastic contaminations and impacts were investigated in 15 wild-caught commercially important dolphinfish (Coryphaena hippurus L.) from the Eastern Pacific Ocean waters. 1741 suspected particles were extracted from gills, esophagus, stomachs, intestinal tracts, and muscle of C. hippurus. Only 139 of them were identified as microplastics by microscopic inspections and micro-Raman spectroscopic analysis. 10, 34, 51, 35, and 9 out of these 139 microplastic particles were extracted from the gill, esophagus, stomach, intestinal tract, and muscle respectively. Overall, microplastics were detected in 15 out of 15 fish (100%), with ~9.3 pieces per individual on average. The prevalence and high incidence of occurrence of microplastics in the C. hippurus suggest that this pelagic species are at high risk of exposure to microplastic pollutions. The chemical composition of microplastics was made of polyester (PES, 46.8%), polyethylene terephthalate (PET, 38.1%), polypropylene (PP, 7.9%), polystyrene (PS, 5.0%), polyethylene-polypropylene copolymer (PE-PP, 1.4%), and polyethylene (PE, 0.7%). 36.7% and 13.7% of microplastics in the fish were 1-2.5 mm and 2.5-5 mm, respectively. Microplastics of 0.1-0.5 mm and 0.5-1 mm roughly shared equally the remaining 50%. Molecular docking results implied that interaction of the four dominant microplastic polymers (PES, PET, PP, and PS) with cytochrome P450 17A1 would lead to impairment of the reproductive function of C. hippurus. The findings provide insights on the harms from microplastic exposure, along with quantitative information of occurrence, abundance, and distribution of microplastics in the fish tissues, which will ultimately improve understanding of bioavailability and hazards of microplastics to the organisms and beyond to human via food chain transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiwen Li
- Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Zhong Pan
- Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen 361005, China.
| | - Jing Xu
- College of Ocean and Earth Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Qianlong Liu
- College of Ocean and Earth Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Qingping Zou
- The Lyell Centre for Earth and Marine Science and Technology, Institute for Infrastructure and Environment, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Hui Lin
- Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen 361005, China.
| | - Lijun Wu
- College of Marine Science, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Hao Huang
- Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen 361005, China
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26
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Microplastics: impacts on corals and other reef organisms. Emerg Top Life Sci 2022; 6:81-93. [PMID: 35137913 PMCID: PMC9023018 DOI: 10.1042/etls20210236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Plastic pollution in a growing problem globally. In addition to the continuous flow of plastic particles to the environment from direct sources, and through the natural wear and tear of items, the plastics that are already there have the potential to breakdown further and therefore provide an immense source of plastic particles. With the continued rise in levels of plastic production, and consequently increasing levels entering our marine environments it is imperative that we understand its impacts. There is evidence microplastic and nanoplastic (MNP) pose a serious threat to all the world's marine ecosystems and biota, across all taxa and trophic levels, having individual- to ecosystem-level impacts, although these impacts are not fully understood. Microplastics (MPs; 0.1–5 mm) have been consistently found associated with the biota, water and sediments of all coral reefs studied, but due to limitations in the current techniques, a knowledge gap exists for the level of nanoplastic (NP; <1 µm). This is of particular concern as it is this size fraction that is thought to pose the greatest risk due to their ability to translocate into different organs and across cell membranes. Furthermore, few studies have examined the interactions of MNP exposure and other anthropogenic stressors such as ocean acidification and rising temperature. To support the decision-making required to protect these ecosystems, an advancement in standardised methods for the assessment of both MP and NPs is essential. This knowledge, and that of predicted levels can then be used to determine potential impacts more accurately.
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27
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Riani E, Cordova MR. Microplastic ingestion by the sandfish Holothuria scabra in Lampung and Sumbawa, Indonesia. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 175:113134. [PMID: 34823866 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.113134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the abundances and characteristics of microplastics in sediments and sandfish (Holothuria scabra) in Lampung and Sumbawa, Indonesia. Microplastics were found in 89.02% of all sandfish samples, with an average abundance of 2.01 ± 1.59 particles individual-1. The abundance of microplastics was 58.42 ± 24.33 particles kg-1 in surface sediments. Furthermore, there was a positive relationship between the abundance of microplastics in sandfish and sediments. Fragments and fibers with small-sized microplastics (300-1000 μm) were the most abundant types found in sandfish and sediments. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) analysis showed that polyethylene (30.08%), polypropylene (30.08%), polyurethane (12.20%), and polyethylene terephthalate (8.94%) were the most abundant polymers in the samples. Our results strongly indicate that microplastics in Lampung and Sumbawa originate from the fragmentation of large plastics. Better solid waste management in Indonesia is needed to reduce plastic waste leakage, which could become microplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Etty Riani
- Department of Aquatic Resources Management, Faculty of Fishery and Marine Science, Bogor Agricultural University, Jalan Rasamala Kampus IPB Dramaga, Bogor 16680, Indonesia.
| | - Muhammad Reza Cordova
- Research Center for Oceanography, Indonesian Institute of Sciences, Jl, Pasir Putih 1, Ancol Timur, Jakarta 14430, Indonesia; Research Center for Oceanography, National Research and Innovation Agency, Jl, Pasir Putih 1, Ancol Timur, Jakarta 14430, Indonesia.
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28
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Ehlers SM, Ellrich JA, Koop JHE. Microplastic load and polymer type composition in European rocky intertidal snails: Consistency across locations, wave exposure and years. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 292:118280. [PMID: 34648833 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.118280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (<5 mm) are emerging pollutants in oceans worldwide. As such small particles are easily ingested, microplastics are found in numerous pelagic and benthic organisms. However, information on microplastics in rocky intertidal organisms and habitats is relatively scant. Therefore, we examined snails and water samples from wave-sheltered and wave-exposed rocky intertidal habitats in Helgoland (North Sea), Cap Ferrat and Giglio (Mediterranean) and Madeira (Atlantic Ocean) in 2019-2020 for microplastics. Furthermore, we examined snails from the same habitats in Helgoland, Cap Ferrat and Giglio in 2007-2009. In total, we performed 362 individual micro-Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (μFTIR) measurements on the snails and water samples. While the snails contained 50 microplastics (composed of nine polymer types), the water samples contained 24 microplastics (comprising six polymer types). Microplastic load and polymer type composition in the snails were rather similar across locations, wave exposure and years. Also, microplastic load and polymer composition in the water samples were similar across locations and wave exposure. Moreover, snail and water microplastic loads were significantly correlated which indicates that snails are useful bioindicators for microplastic loads in rocky intertidal habitats. Interestingly, the majority of the microplastics consisted of paint chips that likely derived from ships. Overall, our study provides the first comprehensive microplastic record in rocky intertidal organisms across locations, wave exposure and years that can serve as a baseline to examine historic and future microplastic dynamics in rocky intertidal systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja M Ehlers
- Department of Animal Ecology, Federal Institute of Hydrology, 56068, Koblenz, Germany; Institute for Integrated Natural Sciences, University of Koblenz-Landau, 56070, Koblenz, Germany.
| | | | - Jochen H E Koop
- Department of Animal Ecology, Federal Institute of Hydrology, 56068, Koblenz, Germany; Institute for Integrated Natural Sciences, University of Koblenz-Landau, 56070, Koblenz, Germany
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29
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Kaloyianni M, Bobori DC, Xanthopoulou D, Malioufa G, Sampsonidis I, Kalogiannis S, Feidantsis K, Kastrinaki G, Dimitriadi A, Koumoundouros G, Lambropoulou DA, Kyzas GZ, Bikiaris DN. Toxicity and Functional Tissue Responses of Two Freshwater Fish after Exposure to Polystyrene Microplastics. TOXICS 2021; 9:289. [PMID: 34822680 PMCID: PMC8625933 DOI: 10.3390/toxics9110289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs)' ingestion has been demonstrated in several aquatic organisms. This process may facilitate the hydrophobic waterborne pollutants or chemical additives transfer to biota. In the present study the suitability of a battery of biomarkers on oxidative stress, physiology, tissue function and metabolic profile was investigated for the early detection of adverse effects of 21-day exposure to polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs, sized 5-12 μm) in the liver and gills of zebrafish Danio rerio and perch, Perca fluviatilis, both of which are freshwater fish species. An optical volume map representation of the zebrafish gill by Raman spectroscopy depicted 5 μm diameter PS-MP dispersed in the gill tissue. Concentrations of PS-MPs close to the EC50 of each fish affected fish physiology in all tissues studied. Increased levels of biomarkers of oxidative damage in exposed fish in relation to controls were observed, as well as activation of apoptosis and autophagy processes. Malondialdehyde (MDA), protein carbonyls and DNA damage responses differed with regard to the sensitivity of each tissue of each fish. In the toxicity cascade gills seemed to be more liable to respond to PS-MPs than liver for the majority of the parameters measured. DNA damage was the most susceptible biomarker exhibiting greater response in the liver of both species. The interaction between MPs and cellular components provoked metabolic alterations in the tissues studied, affecting mainly amino acids, nitrogen and energy metabolism. Toxicity was species and tissue specific, with specific biomarkers responding differently in gills and in liver. The fish species that seemed to be more susceptible to MPs at the conditions studied, was P. fluviatilis compared to D. rerio. The current findings add to a holistic approach for the identification of small sized PS-MPs' biological effects in fish, thus aiming to provide evidence regarding PS-MPs' environmental impact on wild fish populations and food safety and adequacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martha Kaloyianni
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Zoology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (M.K.); (D.X.); (G.M.); (K.F.)
| | - Dimitra C. Bobori
- Laboratory of Ichthyology, Department of Zoology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Despoina Xanthopoulou
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Zoology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (M.K.); (D.X.); (G.M.); (K.F.)
- Laboratory of Ichthyology, Department of Zoology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Glykeria Malioufa
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Zoology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (M.K.); (D.X.); (G.M.); (K.F.)
| | - Ioannis Sampsonidis
- Department of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, International Hellenic University, 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece; (I.S.); (S.K.)
| | - Stavros Kalogiannis
- Department of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, International Hellenic University, 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece; (I.S.); (S.K.)
| | - Konstantinos Feidantsis
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Zoology, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (M.K.); (D.X.); (G.M.); (K.F.)
| | - Georgia Kastrinaki
- Laboratory of Inorganic Materials, CERTH/CPERI, 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Anastasia Dimitriadi
- Biology Department, University of Crete, 70013 Herakleion, Greece; (A.D.); (G.K.)
| | - George Koumoundouros
- Biology Department, University of Crete, 70013 Herakleion, Greece; (A.D.); (G.K.)
| | - Dimitra A. Lambropoulou
- Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - George Z. Kyzas
- Department of Chemistry, International Hellenic University, 65404 Kavala, Greece;
| | - Dimitrios N. Bikiaris
- Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Technology, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
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30
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Sainio E, Lehtiniemi M, Setälä O. Microplastic ingestion by small coastal fish in the northern Baltic Sea, Finland. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 172:112814. [PMID: 34392158 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2021] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) ingestion by four species of small coastal fish from the northern Baltic Sea was investigated. The digestive tract contents of 424 specimens, caught across eight sampling sites along the Finnish coastline were analysed for the occurrence of MP ingestion. MP were found in 38 fish individuals (9% of sampled fish). Specimens from the urban area of Helsinki displayed the highest prevalence of ingested plastics (27.5%). No relationship was found between the size or species of the fish and the presence of ingested MP particles nor the amount of MP in seawater. The comparison to a previous study conducted using the same research methods indicates that the ingestion of MP is more common in coastal fish than in offshore fish in the northern Baltic Sea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Sainio
- Marine Research Centre, Finnish Environment Institute, Latokartanonkaari 11, FI-00790 Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Maiju Lehtiniemi
- Marine Research Centre, Finnish Environment Institute, Latokartanonkaari 11, FI-00790 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Outi Setälä
- Marine Research Centre, Finnish Environment Institute, Latokartanonkaari 11, FI-00790 Helsinki, Finland
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Hasan NA, Heal RD, Bashar A, Haque MM. Face masks: protecting the wearer but neglecting the aquatic environment? - A perspective from Bangladesh. ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2021; 4:100126. [PMID: 37522149 PMCID: PMC9040459 DOI: 10.1016/j.envc.2021.100126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
In Bangladesh, as with many countries, the spread of COVID-19 made the wearing of single-use face masks, a non-pharmaceutical intervention to reduce viral transmission, surge in popularity amongst the general population. Consequently, irresponsible discarding of used masks into the environment, and mismanagement of the waste they produce, is potentially placing a large pollution burden on aquatic ecosystems in the country. Slow degradation of mask-derived polypropylene and polyethylene fibres creates large reservoirs of microplastic pollutants and these have acute and chronic effects on aquatic organism physiology. Using literature reviews, extrapolation of published data, and field observations, we present an emerging issue of pollution from COVID-19 personal protective equipment such as face masks in Bangladesh. We have estimated the volume of waste generated and document the potential consequences of its improper disposal, and subsequent degradation, in aquaculture ponds within country. In a field survey of 30 ponds in the Muktagacha upazilla, 76.7% were found to have plastics in contact with the water, or within 1m of the pond, and there was an average of 63 pieces of macro-plastic pollution per 5m2. This included floating discarded face masks. Bangladesh has a rich freshwater and marine resource which it depends upon for export trade, nutrition of the population, and jobs. To mitigate potential acute and chronic impacts on aquaculture and the environment, recommendations are made that, if adopted, would reduce entry of microplastics into the aquatic environments via face mask waste mismanagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neaz A Hasan
- Department of Aquaculture, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, Bangladesh
| | - Richard D Heal
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), Weymouth, United Kingdom
| | - Abul Bashar
- Department of Aquaculture, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, Bangladesh
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Torres FG, De-la-Torre GE. Environmental pollution with antifouling paint particles: Distribution, ecotoxicology, and sustainable alternatives. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 169:112529. [PMID: 34058498 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Revised: 05/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Antifouling paint particles (APPs) are a type of paint particle loaded with toxic biocidal compounds. The present review focused on the current knowledge in respect of the abundance, distribution, and ecotoxicological effects of APPs in the marine environment. Also, the recent advances in nontoxic biobased antifouling paints were discussed as potential alternatives to contemporary marine coatings. The presence of APPs is mainly associated with boat maintenance in boatyards and port areas. Conventional microplastic assessments showed a significant contribution of paint particles to the morphological composition. Moreover, recent ecotoxicological studies demonstrated that environmental concentrations of APPs induce mortality (LC50) in sediment dwellers and macroinvertebrates. Novel biocides from natural sources and biopolymer binders in the formulation of antifouling paints are proposed as potential alternatives to conventional antifouling paints. The toxicity of most natural biocides is negligible to nontargeted species, while biopolymers are expected to prevent the formation of APPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando G Torres
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú, Av. Universitaria 1801, 15088 Lima, Peru.
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BAO Z, CHEN Z, QI Z, WANG G, CAI Z. [Adsorption mechanism of typical monohydroxyphenanthrene on polyvinyl chloride microplastics]. Se Pu 2021; 39:870-877. [PMID: 34212587 PMCID: PMC9404046 DOI: 10.3724/sp.j.1123.2020.09005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
To enrich data related to the interaction mechanism between microplastics and organic pollutants, in this study, 3-hydroxy-phenanthrene (3-OHP, C14H10O), a phenanthrene derivative, was selected as a representative pollutant, and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) microplastics were chosen as the research objects. We investigated the adsorption behavior of 3-OHP on PVC microplastics in aqueous solutions and explored the adsorption mechanism in detail. The PVC microplastics were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. The standard curves of the ultraviolet (UV) absorption spectrum of the target pollutant were obtained using a UV spectrophotometer. The fitting coefficient values of all standard curves were higher than 0.99 (R2>0.99). To ensure the accuracy of the UV absorption spectrum, the pollutant concentration gradient was set according to the absorbance (Abs) values, which were higher than 0.438. The measured concentrations were calculated using a standard curve equation. The adsorption mechanism of 3-OHP on PVC microplastics in an aqueous solution was studied by combining adsorption models (adsorption kinetics model, adsorption isotherm model, and adsorption thermodynamics model) and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The results are as follows: (1) From the adsorption kinetics experiment, the pseudo-second-order kinetic model had the best fitting degree, and the fitting coefficient of adsorption kinetics was 0.998 (R2=0.998). Hence, 3-OHP adsorption on PVC microplastics may be attributed to surface adsorption and external liquid film diffusion; the equilibrium adsorption amount was 36.866 μg/g after 24 h. (2) The adsorption isotherm experiment showed that the Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models were more suitable for describing the adsorption mechanism of 3-OHP adsorption on PVC microplastics because of the satisfactory fitting coefficient (R 2=0.956 and 0.907), suggesting that the adsorption mode was mainly single-layer adsorption with a small amount of multilayer adsorption. The maximum adsorption amount of 3-OHP adsorption on PVC microplastics was 408 μg/g; (3) the adsorption thermodynamics results showed that the adsorption efficiency of 3-OHP adsorption on PVC microplastics decreased with increasing temperature, indicating that the adsorption of 3-OHP on PVC microplastics was a spontaneous and exothermic adsorption process; (4) the salinity experiment results showed that salinity had little effect on the adsorption efficiency of 3-OHP on PVC microplastics; (5) DFT calculations showed that PVC had a relatively low binding energy to 3-OHP. Therefore, we suggest that the main adsorption mechanism of 3-OHP on PVC microplastics may be the hydrophobic effect; weak hydrogen bonding, halogen bonding, and π-π conjugate action could also play a role in 3-OHP adsorption on PVC. These results reveal the interaction mechanism between PVC microplastics and organic chemicals, and enhance our understanding of the environmental behavior of PVC microplastics in aqueous solutions. To serve as a reference in scientific evaluations of the environmental impact of microplastics, future studies should focus on obtaining toxicological data for the microplastics.
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Turner A. Paint particles in the marine environment: An overlooked component of microplastics. WATER RESEARCH X 2021; 12:100110. [PMID: 34401707 PMCID: PMC8350503 DOI: 10.1016/j.wroa.2021.100110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Because paint particles consist of a resin (polymer) combined with one or more additives, they bear compositional similarities with microplastics. Despite these shared characteristics, however, paint particles are often undetected, deliberately overlooked or evade classification in the pool of micro-debris (all synthetic debris of < 5 mm in size), and in particular in the marine setting where an extensive body of microplastic literature exists. Accordingly, the present paper provides a critical insight into the physico-chemical properties, sources, distributions, behaviour and toxicity of paint particles in the marine environment. Paint particles contain a greater proportion of additives than plastics and, consequently, are more brittle, angular, opaque, dense, heterogeneous and layered than microplastics of equivalent dimensions. Land-based sources of paint particles, including deteriorating or disturbed coatings on roads and building, are transported to the ocean with other microplastics via urban runoff, water treatment facilities and the atmosphere. However, inputs of paint particles are enhanced significantly and more directly by the disturbance, erosion and weathering of coatings on coastal structures, boats and ships. Estimates of paint particle emissions to the marine environment vary widely, with calculated contributions to the total synthetic micro-debris input as high as 35%. Upper estimates are consistent with available (albeit limited) quantitative information on the relative abundance of paint particles amongst synthetic material captured by sea surface trawls and ingested by marine animals. Of greatest environmental concern is the high chemical toxicity of paint particles compared with similarly-sized microplastics and other synthetic debris. This results from the contemporary and historical use of high concentrations of hazardous inorganic additives in marine antifouling and land-based paints, and the relatively ready mobilisation of harmful ions, like Cu+/Cu2+, TBT+, Pb2+ and CrO4 2-, from the matrix. Recommendations arising from this review include greater use of particulate capturing devices, waste collection systems and recycling facilities during paint disturbance, raising awareness of the potential impacts of discarded paint amongst users, and alerting the microplastic community to the significance of paint particles and developing means by which they are isolated from environmental samples.
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Prokić MD, Gavrilović BR, Radovanović TB, Gavrić JP, Petrović TG, Despotović SG, Faggio C. Studying microplastics: Lessons from evaluated literature on animal model organisms and experimental approaches. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 414:125476. [PMID: 33647615 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.125476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Although we are witnesses of an increase in the number of studies examining the exposure/effects of microplastics (MPs) on different organisms, there are many unknowns. This review aims to: (i) analyze current studies devoted to investigating the exposure/effects of MPs on animals; (ii) provide some basic knowledge about different model organisms and experimental approaches used in studying MPs; and to (iii) convey directions for future studies. We have summarized data from 500 studies published from January 2011 to May 2020, about different aspects of model organisms (taxonomic group of organisms, type of ecosystem they inhabit, life-stage, sex, tissue and/or organ) and experimental design (laboratory/field, ingestion/bioaccumulation/effect). We also discuss and try to encourage investigation of some less studied organisms (terrestrial and freshwater species, among groups including Annelida, Nematoda, Echinodermata, Cnidaria, Rotifera, birds, amphibians, reptiles), and aspects of MP pollution (long-term field studies, comparative studies examining life stages, sexes, laboratory and field work). We hope that the information presented in this review will serve as a good starting point and will provide useful guidelines for researchers during the process of deciding on the model organism and study designs for investigating MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marko D Prokić
- Department of Physiology, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković" - National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar despota Stefana 142, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Branka R Gavrilović
- Department of Physiology, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković" - National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar despota Stefana 142, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Tijana B Radovanović
- Department of Physiology, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković" - National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar despota Stefana 142, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jelena P Gavrić
- Department of Physiology, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković" - National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar despota Stefana 142, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Tamara G Petrović
- Department of Physiology, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković" - National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar despota Stefana 142, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Svetlana G Despotović
- Department of Physiology, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković" - National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar despota Stefana 142, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Caterina Faggio
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno d'Alcontres, 3198166 Santa Agata-Messina, Italy.
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Chen JC, Fang C, Zheng RH, Hong FK, Jiang YL, Zhang M, Li Y, Hamid FS, Bo J, Lin LS. Microplastic pollution in wild commercial nekton from the South China Sea and Indian Ocean, and its implication to human health. MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2021; 167:105295. [PMID: 33714106 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2021.105295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Marine biota, especially commercially important species, serves as a basis for human nutrition. However, millions of tons of plastic litter are produced and enter the marine environment every year, with potential adverse impacts on marine organisms. In the present study, we investigated the occurrence and characteristics of microplastic (MP) pollution in the digestive tracts of 13 species of wild nektons from 20 stations sampled in the South China Sea (SCS) and the Indian Ocean (IO), and assessed the human health risks of MPs. The detection rate of MPs ranged from 0.00% to 50.00% from the SCS, which was dramatically lower than that from the IO (10.00-80.00%). The average abundance of MP was 0.18 ± 0.06 items g wet weight-1 (ww-1) in the SCS, which was significantly lower than that in the IO with a concentration of 0.70 ± 0.16 items g ww-1. Most MPs were fibers in type, black in color, and polyester (PES) in polymer composition in both the SCS and IO. Interestingly, distinct profiles of MP pollution were found between the benthic and pelagic nektons: 1) The predominant MP composition was PES in the benthic nektons, whereas polyamide (PA) accounted for a larger part of the total MP count in the pelagic nektons within the SCS; 2) The abundance of MP in the benthic nektons (0.52 ± 0.24 items individual-1) was higher than that in the pelagic nektons (0.30 ± 0.11 items individual-1). Accordingly, the mean hazard score of MPs detected in the benthic nektons (220.66 ± 210.75) was higher than that in the pelagic nektons (49.53 ± 22.87); 3) The mean size of the MP in the pelagic nektons (0.84 ± 0.17 mm) was larger than that in the benthic nektons (0.49 ± 0.09 mm). Our findings highlight the need to further investigate the ecological impacts of MPs on wild nekton, especially commercially important species, and its potential implications for human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Can Chen
- Laboratory of Marine Biology and Ecology, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen, 361102, China; State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of Ocean & Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, China
| | - Chao Fang
- Laboratory of Marine Biology and Ecology, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen, 361102, China
| | - Rong-Hui Zheng
- Laboratory of Marine Biology and Ecology, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen, 361102, China
| | - Fu-Kun Hong
- Laboratory of Marine Biology and Ecology, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen, 361102, China
| | - Yu-Lu Jiang
- Laboratory of Marine Biology and Ecology, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen, 361102, China; State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of Ocean & Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361005, China
| | - Min Zhang
- Laboratory of Marine Biology and Ecology, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen, 361102, China
| | - Yuan Li
- Laboratory of Marine Biology and Ecology, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen, 361102, China
| | - Fauziah Shahul Hamid
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, 50603, Malaysia
| | - Jun Bo
- Laboratory of Marine Biology and Ecology, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen, 361102, China.
| | - Long-Shan Lin
- Laboratory of Marine Biology and Ecology, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen, 361102, China.
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Guimarães ATB, Charlie-Silva I, Malafaia G. Toxic effects of naturally-aged microplastics on zebrafish juveniles: A more realistic approach to plastic pollution in freshwater ecosystems. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 407:124833. [PMID: 33352420 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2020.124833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
We aim at evaluating the toxicity of naturally-aged polystyrene microplastics (MPs) in Danio rerio at intermediate development stage. Animal models were stactically exposed to 4 × 104 and 4 × 106 microparticles/m3 for five days - this concentration is environmentally relevant. We evaluated MP's impact on animals' nutritional status and REDOX balance, as well as its potential neuro- and cytotoxic action on them. Initially, MPs did not induce any change in total carbohydrates, triglycerides and total cholesterol levels. MP accumulation was associated with oxidative stress induction, which was inferred by the nitrite and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances levels. Furthermore, we observed that such stress was not counterbalanced by increase in the assessed enzymatic (total glutathione, catalase and superoxide dismutase) and non-enzymatic (total thiols, reduced glutathione and DPPH radical scavenging activity) antioxidants. The association between high acetylcholinesterase activity and numerical changes in neuroblasts distributed on animals' body surface confirmed MP's neurotoxic potential. MP's ability to induce apoptosis and necrosis processes in animals' erythrocytes suggested its cytotoxic action; therefore, the present study is pioneer in providing insight on how MPs can affect young freshwater fish at environmental concentrations. It is essential knowing the magnitude of these pollutants' impact on the ichthyofauna.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abraão Tiago Batista Guimarães
- Post-graduation Program in Biotechnology and Biodiversity, Goiano Federal Institution and Federal University of Goiás, Goiás, Brazil; Biological Research Laboratory, Post-graduation Program in Conservation of Cerrado Natural Resources, Goiano Federal Institute - Urata Campus, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Ives Charlie-Silva
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Malafaia
- Post-graduation Program in Biotechnology and Biodiversity, Goiano Federal Institution and Federal University of Goiás, Goiás, Brazil; Biological Research Laboratory, Post-graduation Program in Conservation of Cerrado Natural Resources, Goiano Federal Institute - Urata Campus, Goiás, Brazil.
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Bordós G, Gergely S, Háhn J, Palotai Z, Szabó É, Besenyő G, Salgó A, Harkai P, Kriszt B, Szoboszlay S. Validation of pressurized fractionated filtration microplastic sampling in controlled test environment. WATER RESEARCH 2021; 189:116572. [PMID: 33157414 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2020.116572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
In the field of microplastic (MP) research in the environment, a significant amount of the currently reported results is uncertain because of the inappropriate methods of sampling, detection and quantification of MPs. Fortunately, many research groups are aware of these challenges, but validated methods, which are the prerequisite of standardized measurements, are scarce. Recovery tests are especially rare in the field of MP sampling. The aim of our research was to take a step forward and collect data on cascade filtration recoveries by modeling different turbulance conditions and sampling depth applying environmentally relevant MP concentrations while obtaining large sample volumes. As reference materials, different polymer types (polyethylene - PE; polypropylene - PP; poly[ethylene terephthalate] - PET; poly[vinyl chloride] - PVC; polyamide - PA) and shapes (sphere, fragment, fiber) were used, and for detection near-infrared spectroscopy/microscopy was applied. The developed method provides information not only on system based MP losses, but on sampling efficiency in a model environment as well. Based on the results, the highest recovery rate of all polymers was 31.4% on average, sampled from the water surface during continuous stirring. In these conditions, 92.4% of the PE spheres and 31.9% of the PE fragments were recovered. This indicates, particles reported in environmental monitoring studies might be less than the real environmental concentration. We can conclude, that surface sampling is more efficient than sampling in a deeper layer of the water column. Our research revealed, that the widespread application of microspheres as reference materials might lead to too optimistic recovery values. The application of reference particles (fragments, fibers) with higher environmental relevance shows much lower recovery rates. Our results highlight, that validating the efficiency of the whole sampling process from the environment is more important than measuring only the filtration device's recovery. This study helps us to better understand the relationship and the possible gaps between the reported MP results and the real-life concentrations in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gábor Bordós
- WESSLING Hungary Ltd., 6. Anonymus st., Budapest 1045, Hungary; Institute for Natural Resources Conservation, Faculty of Agriculture and Environmental Science, Department of Environmental Protection and Environmental Safety, Szent István University, 1. Páter Károly st., Gödöllő 2100, Hungary.
| | - Szilveszter Gergely
- WESSLING Hungary Ltd., 6. Anonymus st., Budapest 1045, Hungary; NIR Spectroscopy Group, Department of Applied Biotechnology and Food Science, Budapest University of Technology and Economics, 3. Műegyetem rkp, Budapest 1111, Hungary
| | - Judit Háhn
- Institute for Natural Resources Conservation, Faculty of Agriculture and Environmental Science, Department of Environmental Protection and Environmental Safety, Szent István University, 1. Páter Károly st., Gödöllő 2100, Hungary
| | - Zoltán Palotai
- WESSLING Hungary Ltd., 6. Anonymus st., Budapest 1045, Hungary
| | - Éva Szabó
- WESSLING Hungary Ltd., 6. Anonymus st., Budapest 1045, Hungary; NIR Spectroscopy Group, Department of Applied Biotechnology and Food Science, Budapest University of Technology and Economics, 3. Műegyetem rkp, Budapest 1111, Hungary
| | - Gabriella Besenyő
- WESSLING Hungary Ltd., 6. Anonymus st., Budapest 1045, Hungary; NIR Spectroscopy Group, Department of Applied Biotechnology and Food Science, Budapest University of Technology and Economics, 3. Műegyetem rkp, Budapest 1111, Hungary
| | - András Salgó
- WESSLING Hungary Ltd., 6. Anonymus st., Budapest 1045, Hungary; NIR Spectroscopy Group, Department of Applied Biotechnology and Food Science, Budapest University of Technology and Economics, 3. Műegyetem rkp, Budapest 1111, Hungary
| | - Péter Harkai
- Institute for Natural Resources Conservation, Faculty of Agriculture and Environmental Science, Department of Environmental Protection and Environmental Safety, Szent István University, 1. Páter Károly st., Gödöllő 2100, Hungary
| | - Balázs Kriszt
- Institute for Natural Resources Conservation, Faculty of Agriculture and Environmental Science, Department of Environmental Protection and Environmental Safety, Szent István University, 1. Páter Károly st., Gödöllő 2100, Hungary
| | - Sándor Szoboszlay
- Institute for Natural Resources Conservation, Faculty of Agriculture and Environmental Science, Department of Environmental Protection and Environmental Safety, Szent István University, 1. Páter Károly st., Gödöllő 2100, Hungary
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Banaee M, Gholamhosseini A, Sureda A, Soltanian S, Fereidouni MS, Ibrahim ATA. Effects of microplastic exposure on the blood biochemical parameters in the pond turtle (Emys orbicularis). ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:9221-9234. [PMID: 33140300 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-11419-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The accumulation of microplastics (MPs) is a growing problem in aquatic ecosystems. Despite increased research on MPs in the last decade, their potential threat to freshwater ecosystems remains an open question. In the present study, the negative impacts of MPs were investigated on blood biochemical parameters in the European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis). Pond turtles were distributed into three experimental groups (n = 9 for each group) and were fed diets containing 250, 500, and 1000 mg MPs (PE100 polyethylene) per kg of food for 30 days, and a control group fed with a standard uncontaminated diet. The results indicated that exposure to 500 and 1000 mg kg-1 MPs caused a significant increase in the activities of alanine and aspartate aminotransferases, and in the levels of cholesterol, glucose, creatinine, urea, and calcium (Ca+2) compared with the control group. On the contrary, the activity of gamma-glutamyl transferase and the levels of total protein, albumin, total immunoglobulins, and phosphorus were significantly reduced in E. orbicularis exposed to 500 and 1000 mg kg-1 MPs when compared with the controls. In all the MP-exposed groups, the activity of lactate dehydrogenase and globulin and magnesium (Mg+2) levels were significantly reduced; while creatine phosphokinase and alkaline phosphatase activities were increased with respect to the control turtles. A significant decrease in triglyceride levels was reported in E. orbicularis exposed to 1000 mg kg-1 MPs. MPs intake induced notable alterations in blood biochemical parameters of E. orbicularis. These results suggest that changes in the blood biochemical parameters could be an appropriate bio-indicator to evidence the existence of tissue damage in E. orbicularis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdi Banaee
- Aquaculture Department, Faculty of Natural Resources, Behbahan Khatam Alanbia University of Technology, Behbahan, Khuzestan Province, Iran.
| | - Amin Gholamhosseini
- Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Antoni Sureda
- Research Group on Community Nutrition and Oxidative Stress, Department of Fundamental Biology and Health Sciences, and CIBEROBN Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y la Nutrición, University of Balearic Islands, 07122, Palma de Mallorca, Spain
| | - Siyavash Soltanian
- Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
| | | | - Ahmed Th A Ibrahim
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, New Valley University, Kharga Oasis, Egypt
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Miller ME, Motti CA, Menendez P, Kroon FJ. Efficacy of Microplastic Separation Techniques on Seawater Samples: Testing Accuracy Using High-Density Polyethylene. THE BIOLOGICAL BULLETIN 2021; 240:52-66. [PMID: 33730536 DOI: 10.1086/710755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
AbstractMicroplastic contamination of the marine environment has been reported globally. Its pervasiveness has highlighted the importance of accurate quantification to enable comparability within and between different environmental matrices. The potential efficacy of different methods to separate microplastics from their environmental sample matrix, however, is rarely validated. In this study, we examine the effects of four commonly used separation methods for seawater samples, namely, visual separation, density flotation, acidic digestion, and enzymatic digestion, using high-density polyethylene as our model microplastic. For each separation method, clarification efficiencies of the sample matrix, spiked recovery of high-density polyethylene microparticles, and potential changes in the chemical and physical characteristics of high-density polyethylene were assessed. High, albeit variable, recovery rates (>83%) of high-density polyethylene microparticles were achieved across all methods. Concentrated nitric acid was most effective at eliminating biological material from seawater samples. No apparent physical (i.e., length or color) or chemical changes due to separation treatments were observed in recovered high-density polyethylene microparticles, with the one exception that enzymatic digestion obscured polymer identification of high-density polyethylene. Our findings highlight the need to determine and report on the accuracy of separation methods for different polymer types and specific environmental sample matrices to ensure accurate quantification of marine microplastic contamination.
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Lambiase S, Serpe FP, Pilia M, Fiorito F, Iaccarino D, Gallo P, Esposito M. Polychlorinated organic pollutants (PCDD/Fs and DL-PCBs) in loggerhead (Caretta caretta) and green (Chelonia mydas) turtles from Central-Southern Tyrrhenian Sea. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 263:128226. [PMID: 33297182 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.128226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/29/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
This study assesses for the first time the levels of PCDD/Fs and DL-PCBs in sea turtles coming from Tyrrhenian Sea. The concentrations measured in liver of the 24 specimens analysed were 6.90 vs 5.65 pg g-1 wet weight (ww) for PCDD/Fs and 10.95 vs 0.79 ng g-1 ww for DL-PCBs in Caretta caretta and Chelonia mydas, respectively. The DL-PCB levels resulted very higher in Caretta caretta than Chelonia mydas probably due to the different eating habits between the two species investigated. Furthermore, the highest levels of DL-PCBs were determined in livers of the adult Caretta caretta turtles of male sex. Positive correlations were found out between PCB-81 and the body mass (BM) of turtles (r2 = 0.6561; p = 0.001) and between PCB-81 and the curved carapace length (CCL) (r2 = 0.6250; p = 0.006) suggesting that the body burden of contaminants is related to the body size. The mean TEQ values, as a matter of risk assessment for turtles, were 3.64 vs 1.62 pg TEQ g-1 ww for PCDD/Fs and 8.72 vs 2.16 pg TEQ g-1 ww for DL-PCBs in Caretta caretta and Chelonia mydas, respectively. The results reported in this study increase the data available about the consequences of the Mediterranean Sea contamination by organochlorine pollutants and highlight an evident PCDD/F and PCB bioaccumulation in sea turtle tissues that threatens the survival of these marine organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Lambiase
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, 80055, Portici, Italy
| | | | - Marisa Pilia
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, 80055, Portici, Italy
| | - Filomena Fiorito
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Doriana Iaccarino
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, 80055, Portici, Italy
| | - Pasquale Gallo
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, 80055, Portici, Italy
| | - Mauro Esposito
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, 80055, Portici, Italy
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Battaglia FM, Beckingham BA, McFee WE. First report from North America of microplastics in the gastrointestinal tract of stranded bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus). MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2020; 160:111677. [PMID: 33181950 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2020.111677] [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: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics' (MPs) abundance, small size, and global distribution render them bioavailable to a variety of organisms directly or by trophic transfer, yet examinations in marine apex predators are currently limited. The present study investigated the occurrence of MPs sized 125 μm-5 mm in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) stranded in South Carolina, USA from 2017 to 2018. MPs, mostly fibers, were detected in all GITs (n = 7) of stranded bottlenose dolphins. Total suspected MPs ranged between 123 and 422 particles/individual, a high range among international studies. Comparison to other studies likely reflects differences in both methods and location. This is the first study from North America to quantify MPs in a small coastal cetacean outside Arctic waters and the first specifically in bottlenose dolphins (southeastern United States). Findings and methodology from this investigation can aid future studies examining MP in marine apex predators.
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Affiliation(s)
- F M Battaglia
- College of Charleston, Graduate Program in Marine Biology, Grice Marine Lab, 205 Fort Johnson Rd., Charleston, SC 29412, USA.
| | - B A Beckingham
- College of Charleston, Department of Geology and Environmental Geosciences, 66 George St., Charleston, SC 29424, USA
| | - W E McFee
- National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 219 Fort Johnson Rd., Charleston, SC 29412, USA
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Wang J, Coffin S, Schlenk D, Gan J. Accumulation of HOCs via Precontaminated Microplastics by Earthworm Eisenia fetida in Soil. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2020; 54:11220-11229. [PMID: 32786560 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c02922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Soil is a primary sink for plastics, but the influence of microplastics as carriers on terrestrial cycling of persistent contaminants is poorly understood as compared to aquatic systems. Studies to date have disregarded the potential fact that microplastics are generally contaminated before their entry into soil. In this study, earthworm Eisenia fetida was incubated for 28 d in a soil amended with five common types of microplastics precontaminated with polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) to elucidate contaminant transfer. Accumulation of HOCs in E. fetida varied greatly among different plastic types and HOCs. The freely dissolved concentration (Cfree) of HOCs showed that desorption of HOCs from microplastics into soil was closely related to plastic types and HOC hydrophobicity and was much slower for polystyrene or polypropylene than polyethylene. Biodynamic model analysis suggested that ingestion of microplastics could act as a significant pathway for some microplastics, likely due to HOCs on the plastics being in an "over-equilibrium" state. This was in contrast with mixing clean microplastics into HOC-contaminated soil, where the microplastics decreased bioaccumulation. Therefore, whether microplastics serve as facilitators or inhibitors of HOC bioaccumulation depends on the fugacity gradient of HOCs between microplastics and soil, which highlights the importance of considering the sequence of contamination between the plastics and soil. These findings also question the validity of short-term experiments because of the generally very slow partition kinetics of HOCs on plastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Wang
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of California, Riverside, California 92521, United States
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Scott Coffin
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of California, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Daniel Schlenk
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of California, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Jay Gan
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of California, Riverside, California 92521, United States
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Primpke S, Christiansen SH, Cowger W, De Frond H, Deshpande A, Fischer M, Holland EB, Meyns M, O'Donnell BA, Ossmann BE, Pittroff M, Sarau G, Scholz-Böttcher BM, Wiggin KJ. Critical Assessment of Analytical Methods for the Harmonized and Cost-Efficient Analysis of Microplastics. APPLIED SPECTROSCOPY 2020; 74:1012-1047. [PMID: 32249594 DOI: 10.1177/0003702820921465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are of major concerns for society and is currently in the focus of legislators and administrations. A small number of measures to reduce or remove primary sources of microplastics to the environment are currently coming into effect. At the moment, they have not yet tackled important topics such as food safety. However, recent developments such as the 2018 bill in California are requesting the analysis of microplastics in drinking water by standardized operational protocols. Administrations and analytical labs are facing an emerging field of methods for sampling, extraction, and analysis of microplastics, which complicate the establishment of standardized operational protocols. In this review, the state of the currently applied identification and quantification tools for microplastics are evaluated providing a harmonized guideline for future standardized operational protocols to cover these types of bills. The main focus is on the naked eye detection, general optical microscopy, the application of dye staining, flow cytometry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-Ir) and microscopy, Raman spectroscopy and microscopy, thermal degradation by pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (py-GC-MS) as well as thermo-extraction and desorption gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (TED-GC-MS). Additional techniques are highlighted as well as the combined application of the analytical techniques suggested. An outlook is given on the emerging aspect of nanoplastic analysis. In all cases, the methods were screened for limitations, field work abilities and, if possible, estimated costs and summarized into a recommendation for a workflow covering the demands of society, legislation, and administration in cost efficient but still detailed manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Primpke
- Alfred-Wegener-Institute Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Biologische Anstalt Helgoland, Helgoland, Germany
| | - Silke H Christiansen
- Research Group Christiansen, Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie, Berlin, Germany
- Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light, Erlangen, Germany
- Physics Department, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Win Cowger
- University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Hannah De Frond
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ashok Deshpande
- NOAA Fisheries, James J. Howard Marine Sciences Laboratory at Sandy Hook, Highlands, NJ, USA
| | - Marten Fischer
- Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment (ICBM), Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Erika B Holland
- Department of Biological Sciences, California State University of Long Beach, Long Beach, CA, USA
| | - Michaela Meyns
- Alfred-Wegener-Institute Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Biologische Anstalt Helgoland, Helgoland, Germany
| | - Bridget A O'Donnell
- HORIBA Instruments Incorporated, A HORIBA Scientific Company, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Barbara E Ossmann
- Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Erlangen, Germany
- Food Chemistry Unit, Department of Chemistry and Pharmacy-Emil Fischer Center, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Marco Pittroff
- TZW: DVGW-Technologiezentrum Wasser (German Water Centre), Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - George Sarau
- Research Group Christiansen, Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie, Berlin, Germany
- Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Barbara M Scholz-Böttcher
- Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment (ICBM), Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Kara J Wiggin
- Department of Biological Sciences, California State University of Long Beach, Long Beach, CA, USA
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Brander SM, Renick VC, Foley MM, Steele C, Woo M, Lusher A, Carr S, Helm P, Box C, Cherniak S, Andrews RC, Rochman CM. Sampling and Quality Assurance and Quality Control: A Guide for Scientists Investigating the Occurrence of Microplastics Across Matrices. APPLIED SPECTROSCOPY 2020; 74:1099-1125. [PMID: 32643389 DOI: 10.1177/0003702820945713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution is a defining environmental contaminant and is considered to be one of the greatest environmental threats of the Anthropocene, with its presence documented across aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. The majority of this plastic debris falls into the micro (1 μm-5 mm) or nano (1-1000 nm) size range and comes from primary and secondary sources. Its small size makes it cumbersome to isolate and analyze reproducibly, and its ubiquitous distribution creates numerous challenges when controlling for background contamination across matrices (e.g., sediment, tissue, water, air). Although research on microplastics represents a relatively nascent subfield, burgeoning interest in questions surrounding the fate and effects of these debris items creates a pressing need for harmonized sampling protocols and quality control approaches. For results across laboratories to be reproducible and comparable, it is imperative that guidelines based on vetted protocols be readily available to research groups, many of which are either new to plastics research or, as with any new subfield, have arrived at current approaches through a process of trial-and-error rather than in consultation with the greater scientific community. The goals of this manuscript are to (i) outline the steps necessary to conduct general as well as matrix-specific quality assurance and quality control based on sample type and associated constraints, (ii) briefly review current findings across matrices, and (iii) provide guidance for the design of sampling regimes. Specific attention is paid to the source of microplastic pollution as well as the pathway by which contamination occurs, with details provided regarding each step in the process from generating appropriate questions to sampling design and collection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne M Brander
- Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Coastal Oregon Marine Experiment Station, Oregon State University, Corvallis, USA
| | - Violet C Renick
- Environmental Services Department, Orange County Sanitation District, Fountain Valley, USA
| | | | - Clare Steele
- California State University Channel Islands, Environmental Science and Resource Management, Camarillo, USA
| | - Mary Woo
- California State University Channel Islands, Environmental Science and Resource Management, Camarillo, USA
| | - Amy Lusher
- Norwegian Institute for Water Research (NIVA), Oslo, Norway
| | - Steve Carr
- San Jose Creek Water Quality Laboratory, County Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles, Whittier, USA
| | - Paul Helm
- Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Sam Cherniak
- Department of Civil and Mineral Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Robert C Andrews
- Department of Civil and Mineral Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Chelsea M Rochman
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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46
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O'Donovan S, Mestre NC, Abel S, Fonseca TG, Carteny CC, Willems T, Prinsen E, Cormier B, Keiter SS, Bebianno MJ. Effects of the UV filter, oxybenzone, adsorbed to microplastics in the clam Scrobicularia plana. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 733:139102. [PMID: 32446057 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.139102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) lipophilic nature and widespread distribution raises concerns due to their increasing presence in the marine environment and their ability to adsorb organic contaminants, as being potential vehicles for transport and potential source of accumulation of organic contaminants by marine organisms. The organic UV-filter, oxybenzone (BP-3) is a constituent of sunscreens and personal care products, entering the marine environment either by direct contact with swimmers or by wastewater effluents. In this study the ecotoxicological effects of exposure to low-density polyethylene (LDPE) microplastics with and without adsorbed BP-3 were investigated in the peppery furrow shell clam, Scrobicularia plana. LDPE microplastics with a size range of 11-13 μm were previously contaminated with an environmentally relevant concentration of BP-3 (82 ng g-1). S. plana individuals were exposed to a concentration of 1 mg L-1 of microplastics with and without BP-3 adsorbed in a water-sediment exposure system for 14 days. Clams were sampled at the beginning of the experiment and after 3, 7, and 14 days of exposure. Multiple biomarkers were analysed to investigate the effect of exposure in different clam tissues, gills, digestive gland, and haemolymph. Antioxidant (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase) and biotransformation (glutathione-S-transferases) enzyme activities, oxidative damage (lipid peroxidation), genotoxicity (single and double strand DNA breaks), and neurotoxicity (acetylcholinesterase activity) were assessed along with two biomarker indexes to assess the overall health status. Results indicate that after 7 days of exposure MPs with adsorbed BP-3 induced oxidative stress and damage, when compared to exposure to virgin MPs and control treatments. Neurotoxic effects were also noted in MPs with adsorbed BP-3 after 14 days exposure, while some evidence points to increased genotoxicity with exposure time. Overall results indicate that gills were more affected by exposure to microplastics than digestive gland and that biomarkers alterations are apparently more related to the toxicity of BP-3 adsorbed than virgin MPs alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarit O'Donovan
- Centre for Marine and Environmental Research, University of Algarve, Faro, Portugal
| | - Nélia C Mestre
- Centre for Marine and Environmental Research, University of Algarve, Faro, Portugal
| | - Serena Abel
- Centre for Marine and Environmental Research, University of Algarve, Faro, Portugal
| | - Tainá G Fonseca
- Centre for Marine and Environmental Research, University of Algarve, Faro, Portugal
| | - Camilla C Carteny
- Systemic Physiological and Ecotoxicological Research, Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Tim Willems
- Integrated Molecular Plant Physiology Research (IMPRES), Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, Groenenborgerlaan 171, 2020 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Els Prinsen
- Integrated Molecular Plant Physiology Research (IMPRES), Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, Groenenborgerlaan 171, 2020 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Bettie Cormier
- Man-Technology-Environment Research Centre (MTM), School of Science and Technology, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden; UMR Centre National dela Recherche Scientifique EPOC, University of Bordeaux, Talence, France
| | - Steffen S Keiter
- Man-Technology-Environment Research Centre (MTM), School of Science and Technology, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Maria João Bebianno
- Centre for Marine and Environmental Research, University of Algarve, Faro, Portugal.
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47
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Candan O, Candan ED. Bacterial diversity of the green turtle (Chelonia mydas) nest environment. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 720:137717. [PMID: 32325608 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.137717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Revised: 01/12/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The green turtle is an endangered species that is highly sensitive to environmental pollution that can adversely affect the healthy development of eggs. Moreover, the presence of some bacteria in nests can be regarded as an indicator of the pollution level in nesting areas. In our study, nest sand and egg contents were collected from Sugözü Beaches (Turkey), in the Mediterranean. Phenotypic and genotypic identification of bacteria were carried out by using conventional phenotypic methods, 16S rRNA gene sequencing respectively. The extended-spectrum beta-lactamase presence and carbapenem resistance of bacteria isolated from egg contents were determined. This is the first report of carbapenem resistance in the eggs. All strains were evaluated in three different categories including growth promoters in agriculture and aquaculture, pathogens that are found in human and animal, and biomonitoring aquatic pollution. According to our analysis, 67 bacterial species were identified from samples. This study is the first record of Alcaligenes, Zobellella, Lysinibacillus, Sphingobacterium, Achromobacter, Acinetobacter, Alcanivorax, Ochrobactrum, Microbacterium, Rhodococcus, and Stenotrophomonas isolated from sea turtles. Pathogens detected in the bacterial flora can threaten both sea turtles and field workers. These data can contribute to the development of new conservation strategies on the treatment of sea turtles, nest protection, and pollution detection on nesting beaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Onur Candan
- Ordu University, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, 52200 Ordu, Turkey.
| | - Esra Deniz Candan
- Giresun University, Vocational School of Health Services, Department of Medical Services and Techniques, 28100 Giresun, Turkey
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48
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Xu X, Wong CY, Tam NFY, Lo HS, Cheung SG. Microplastics in invertebrates on soft shores in Hong Kong: Influence of habitat, taxa and feeding mode. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 715:136999. [PMID: 32023520 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.136999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2019] [Revised: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) pollution in the marine environment has gained much concern in recent years. This study investigated the occurrence of MPs in invertebrates collected on 18 mudflats and sandy beaches in Hong Kong and its relationships to biological taxon, feeding mode and habitat. In total 38 species of gastropods, bivalves and crabs were collected and the mean number of suspected microplastics ranged from 0 to 9.68 particles g-1 wet weight or 0 to 18.4 particles individual-1. Around 26% of the suspected microplastics were confirmed to be synthetic polymers, including CP (cellophane), PET (polyethylene terephthalate), and PA (polyamide). Microplastic fibres were the most abundant type of MPs, followed by pellets. Significantly higher abundance of suspected microplastics was found in gastropods. Since MP abundance might vary with taxon, it is recommended to include different taxonomic groups in any ecological assessment of the impact of MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyu Xu
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Hong Kong, China
| | - C Y Wong
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Hong Kong, China
| | - Nora F Y Tam
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hoi-Shing Lo
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Hong Kong, China
| | - Siu-Gin Cheung
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Hong Kong, China; State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Hong Kong, China.
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49
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Häder DP, Banaszak AT, Villafañe VE, Narvarte MA, González RA, Helbling EW. Anthropogenic pollution of aquatic ecosystems: Emerging problems with global implications. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 713:136586. [PMID: 31955090 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.136586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 193] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2019] [Revised: 01/05/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2020] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
Aquatic ecosystems cover over two thirds of our planet and play a pivotal role in stabilizing the global climate as well as providing a large array of services for a fast-growing human population. However, anthropogenic activities increasingly provoke deleterious impacts in aquatic ecosystems. In this paper we discuss five sources of anthropogenic pollution that affect marine and freshwater ecosystems: sewage, nutrients and terrigenous materials, crude oil, heavy metals and plastics. Using specific locations as examples, we show that land-based anthropogenic activities have repercussions in freshwater and marine environments, and we detail the direct and indirect effects that these pollutants have on a range of aquatic organisms, even when the pollutant source is distant from the sink. While the issues covered here do focus on specific locations, they exemplify emerging problems that are increasingly common around the world. All these issues are in dire need of stricter environmental policies and legislations particularly for pollution at industrial levels, as well as solutions to mitigate the effects of anthropogenic pollutants and restore the important services provided by aquatic ecosystems for future generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donat-P Häder
- Friedrich-Alexander Universität, Dept. Biology, Neue Str. 9, D-91096 Möhrendorf, Germany.
| | - Anastazia T Banaszak
- Unidad Académica de Sistemas Arrecifales, Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Puerto Morelos, Mexico
| | - Virginia E Villafañe
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Argentina; Estación de Fotobiología Playa Unión, Casilla de Correos N° 15, 9103 Rawson, Chubut, Argentina
| | - Maite A Narvarte
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Argentina; Centro de Investigación Aplicada y Transferencia Tecnológica en Recursos Marinos Almirante Storni, Escuela Superior de Ciencias Marinas, Universidad Nacional del Comahue, San Martín 247, 8520 San Antonio Oeste, Río Negro, Argentina
| | - Raúl A González
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Argentina; Centro de Investigación Aplicada y Transferencia Tecnológica en Recursos Marinos Almirante Storni, Escuela Superior de Ciencias Marinas, Universidad Nacional del Comahue, San Martín 247, 8520 San Antonio Oeste, Río Negro, Argentina
| | - E Walter Helbling
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Argentina; Estación de Fotobiología Playa Unión, Casilla de Correos N° 15, 9103 Rawson, Chubut, Argentina
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50
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Hahladakis JN. Delineating the global plastic marine litter challenge: clarifying the misconceptions. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2020; 192:267. [PMID: 32248299 PMCID: PMC7127993 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-020-8202-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2020] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Plastics, owing to their various beneficial properties (durability, flexibility and lightweight nature), are widely regarded as the workhorse material of our modern society. Being ubiquitously and increasingly present over the past 60 years, they provide various benefits to the global economy. However, inappropriate and/or uncontrolled disposal practices, poor waste management infrastructure, and application of insufficient recycling technologies, coupled with a lack of public awareness and incentives, have rendered plastic waste (PW) omnipresent, littering both the marine and the terrestrial environment with multifaceted impacts. The plastic marine litter issue has received much attention, especially in the past decade. There is a plethora of articles and reports released on an annual basis, as well as a lot of ongoing research, which render the issue either to be overexposured or misconstrued. In addition, there are several misinterpretations that surround the presence and environmental impact of plastics in the oceans and, consequently, human health, that require much more critical and scientific thinking. This short communication aims at unveiling any existing misconceptions and attempts to place this global challenge within its real magnitude, based either on scientific facts or nuances. Graphical abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- John N Hahladakis
- Center for Sustainable Development, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, P.O. Box: 2713, Doha, Qatar.
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