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Tarricone S, Colonna MA, Freschi P, Cosentino C, La Gioia G, Carbonara C, Ragni M. The Presence of Microplastics in the Gastrointestinal Tracts of Song Thrushes ( Turdus philomelos) Wintering in Apulia (Southern Italy)-Preliminary Results. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:2050. [PMID: 39061512 PMCID: PMC11273484 DOI: 10.3390/ani14142050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The term microplastics (MPs) describes a heterogeneous mixture of particles that can vary in size, color, and shape. Once released into the environment, MPs have various toxicological and physical effects on wildlife. The Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos) is a migratory species, staying in Italy in late autumn and winter. The aim of this study is to assess, quantify, and characterize the presence of microplastics in Song Thrushes hunted in the Apulia region of Italy. The birds (n = 360) were hunted in the Bari countryside and donated for research purposes by hunters. MPs were classified in relation to their shape in fibers, films, fragments, and pellets; then, they were divided according to their color and the length of the particles was measured. Nikon image analysis software was applied to the litter size measurements. Of the total of 360 birds, MPs were detected in the stomachs of 129 birds shot in December and 128 birds shot in January. The majority of ingested MPs were fibers that were observed in all contaminated birds. Film fragments were observed in every contaminated specimen. Among all the MPs found, 31.75% were red, 30.13% were black, and 25.91% were blue, while the other colors were less represented. This study provides the first analysis of MPs bioaccumulation in Song Thrushes wintering in the Apulia region, and the high contamination of thrushes confirmed the ubiquity of MPs in terrestrial ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Tarricone
- Department of Soil, Plant and Food Sciences, University of Bari ‘Aldo Moro’, 70126 Bari, Italy; (S.T.); (M.A.C.); (M.R.)
| | - Maria Antonietta Colonna
- Department of Soil, Plant and Food Sciences, University of Bari ‘Aldo Moro’, 70126 Bari, Italy; (S.T.); (M.A.C.); (M.R.)
| | - Pierangelo Freschi
- School of Agricultural, Forestry, Food and Environmental Sciences (SAFE), University of Basilicata, 85100 Potenza, Italy; (P.F.); (C.C.)
| | - Carlo Cosentino
- School of Agricultural, Forestry, Food and Environmental Sciences (SAFE), University of Basilicata, 85100 Potenza, Italy; (P.F.); (C.C.)
| | | | - Claudia Carbonara
- Department of Soil, Plant and Food Sciences, University of Bari ‘Aldo Moro’, 70126 Bari, Italy; (S.T.); (M.A.C.); (M.R.)
| | - Marco Ragni
- Department of Soil, Plant and Food Sciences, University of Bari ‘Aldo Moro’, 70126 Bari, Italy; (S.T.); (M.A.C.); (M.R.)
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2
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Duncan EM, Akbora HD, Baldi P, Beton D, Broderick AC, Cicek BA, Crowe-Harland C, Davey S, DeSerisy T, Fuller WJ, Haywood JC, Hsieh YJ, Kaya E, Omeyer LCM, Ozkan M, Palmer JL, Roast E, Santillo D, Schneider MJ, Snape RTE, Sutherland KC, Godley BJ. Marine turtles as bio-indicators of plastic pollution in the eastern Mediterranean. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 201:116141. [PMID: 38401386 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116141] [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: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
The loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta) has been suggested as a bio-indicator species for plastic pollution. However, detailed investigations in the eastern Mediterranean are limited. Here, we present data from loggerhead turtles (2012-2022; n = 131) of which 42.7 % (n = 57) had ingested macroplastic (pieces ≥ 5 mm). Frequency of occurrence (%) was not found to have changed over time, with body size (CCL cm), between stranded or bycaught turtles, or with levels of digesta present. The characteristics of ingested plastic (n = 492) were largely sheetlike (62 %), clear (41 %) or white (25 %) and the most common polymers identified were Polypropylene (37 %) and Polyethylene (35 %). Strong selectivity was displayed towards certain types, colours and shapes. Data are also presented for posthatchling turtles (n = 4), an understudied life stage. Much larger sample sizes will be needed for this species to be an effective bio-indicator, with the consideration of monitoring green turtles (Chelonia mydas) for the eastern Mediterranean recommended allowing a more holistic picture to be gathered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily M Duncan
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn, Cornwall TR10 9EZ, United Kingdom.
| | - Hasan Deniz Akbora
- Underwater Research and Imaging Centre, Biological Sciences Department, Eastern Mediterranean University, 99628 Famagusta, Cyprus; Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Eastern Mediterranean University, 99628 Famagusta, Cyprus
| | - Patrizia Baldi
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn, Cornwall TR10 9EZ, United Kingdom
| | - Damla Beton
- Society for Protection of Turtles, Levent Daire 1, Ulus Sokak, Gönyeli, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Annette C Broderick
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn, Cornwall TR10 9EZ, United Kingdom
| | - Burak Ali Cicek
- Underwater Research and Imaging Centre, Biological Sciences Department, Eastern Mediterranean University, 99628 Famagusta, Cyprus; Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Eastern Mediterranean University, 99628 Famagusta, Cyprus
| | - Charlotte Crowe-Harland
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn, Cornwall TR10 9EZ, United Kingdom
| | - Sophie Davey
- Society for Protection of Turtles, Levent Daire 1, Ulus Sokak, Gönyeli, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Tess DeSerisy
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn, Cornwall TR10 9EZ, United Kingdom
| | - Wayne J Fuller
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn, Cornwall TR10 9EZ, United Kingdom; Society for Protection of Turtles, Levent Daire 1, Ulus Sokak, Gönyeli, Nicosia, Cyprus; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Near East University, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Julia C Haywood
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn, Cornwall TR10 9EZ, United Kingdom
| | - Yu Jou Hsieh
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn, Cornwall TR10 9EZ, United Kingdom
| | - Ecem Kaya
- Society for Protection of Turtles, Levent Daire 1, Ulus Sokak, Gönyeli, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Lucy C M Omeyer
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn, Cornwall TR10 9EZ, United Kingdom
| | - Meryem Ozkan
- Society for Protection of Turtles, Levent Daire 1, Ulus Sokak, Gönyeli, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Josie L Palmer
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn, Cornwall TR10 9EZ, United Kingdom
| | - Emma Roast
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn, Cornwall TR10 9EZ, United Kingdom
| | - David Santillo
- Greenpeace Research Laboratories, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - M Jesse Schneider
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn, Cornwall TR10 9EZ, United Kingdom; Abess Center for Ecosystem Science and Policy, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Robin T E Snape
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn, Cornwall TR10 9EZ, United Kingdom; Society for Protection of Turtles, Levent Daire 1, Ulus Sokak, Gönyeli, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Katrina C Sutherland
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn, Cornwall TR10 9EZ, United Kingdom
| | - Brendan J Godley
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn, Cornwall TR10 9EZ, United Kingdom
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3
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Soursou V, Campo J, Picó Y. Spatio-temporal variation and ecological risk assessment of microplastics along the touristic beaches of a mediterranean coast transect (Valencia province, East Spain). JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 354:120315. [PMID: 38350278 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.120315] [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: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
Annually, the Mediterranean region attracts around one-third of the global coastal tourism, which is acknowledged as a substantial contributor to plastic pollution. Coastal municipalities mitigate this through periodic sand and shore cleaning. However, the efficacy of these measures remains uncertain. In this study, the occurrence of MPs (10 μm-5 mm) in sand from seven different, regularly cleaned, touristic beaches of the coastline of Valencia province (E Spain) was assessed. Two different sampling campaigns were performed in winter and in summer (2022) to compare the results and understand the influence of the high touristic activity, as well as, the efficiency of the measures taken against MPs pollution. The methodology used was designed specifically for the matrix and employed density separation using a Sediment Microplastic Isolation (SMI) Unit. In addition to conventional visual inspection and ATR-FTIR, automatic quantification and identification of the polymers of lower size was performed by μFTIR. The average MPs concentration in the summer (339 ± 92 MP kg-1 by stereomicroscopy and 339 ± 189 MP kg-1 by μFTIR) was significantly higher than in the winter (71 ± 92 MP kg-1 and 143 ± 85 MP kg-1) (p < 0.05). The combination of these analytical tools provides comprehensive information about the MPs present in beach sand. Fibers were the most abundant form of MPs, while most of the polymers analyzed were polyethylene (PE) and halogenated polystyrene (Cl-PS and Br-PS) with food packaging, swimming equipment and fishing nets being their most probable sources. Ecological risk assessment was performed through the Pollution Load Index (PLI), the Hazardous Index (HI) and the Risk Quotient (RQ), with the results indicating potential risk that ranges from moderate to high depending on the applied approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasiliki Soursou
- Environmental and Food Safety Research Group of the University of Valencia (SAMA-UV), Desertification Research Centre CIDE (CSIC-UV-GV), Road CV-315 Km 10.7, 46113, Moncada, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Julián Campo
- Environmental and Food Safety Research Group of the University of Valencia (SAMA-UV), Desertification Research Centre CIDE (CSIC-UV-GV), Road CV-315 Km 10.7, 46113, Moncada, Valencia, Spain
| | - Yolanda Picó
- Environmental and Food Safety Research Group of the University of Valencia (SAMA-UV), Desertification Research Centre CIDE (CSIC-UV-GV), Road CV-315 Km 10.7, 46113, Moncada, Valencia, Spain
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4
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Curl LF, Hurst SA, Pomory CM, Lamont MM, Janosik AM. Assessing microplastics contamination in unviable loggerhead sea turtle eggs. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:169434. [PMID: 38104820 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169434] [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: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Sea turtles, in comparison with marine mammals, sea birds, and fishes, are the most affected by microplastics in terms of number of individuals impacted and concentration within each organism. The ubiquitous nature and persistence of microplastics in the environment further compromises sea turtles as many species are currently vulnerable, endangered, or critically endangered. The objective of this study was to quantify microplastic contamination in unviable loggerhead sea turtle eggs (Caretta caretta). Eggs were collected from seven locations along the northwest coast of Florida. A total of 70 nests and 350 eggs were examined. Microplastics (n = 510) were found in undeveloped loggerhead sea turtle eggs across all seven sites, suggesting that maternal transference and/or exchange between the internal and external environment were possible. The frequency found was 7.29 ± 1.83 microplastic pieces per nest and 1.46 ± 0.01 per egg. Microplastics were categorized based on color, shape, size, and type of polymer. The predominant color of microplastics were blue/green (n = 236), shape was fibers (n = 369), and length was 10-300 μm (n = 191). Identified fragments, films, beads and one foam (n = 187) had the most common area of 1-10 μm2 (n = 45). Micro-Fourier Transform Infrared (μ-FTIR) spectroscopy analysis demonstrated that polyethylene (11 %) and polystyrene (7 %) were the main polymer types. For the first time microplastics were found in unviable, undeveloped loggerhead sea turtle eggs collected in northwest Florida. This work provides insight into the distribution patterns of microplastic pollutants in loggerhead sea turtle eggs and may extend to other species worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Margaret M Lamont
- United States Geological Survey, Wetland and Aquatic Research Center, Gainesville, FL, United States of America
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Zhang T, Li D, Liu Y, Li Y, Yu Y, An X, Jiang Y, Wang J, Shi H, Lin L. Microplastic Distribution Characteristics and Sources on Beaches That Serve as the Largest Nesting Ground for Green Turtles in China. TOXICS 2024; 12:109. [PMID: 38393204 PMCID: PMC10891660 DOI: 10.3390/toxics12020109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
The threat of microplastics to marine animals and habitats is increasing, which may affect sea turtle nesting grounds. The Qilianyu Islands are the largest remaining green turtle (Chelonia mydas) nesting grounds in China. Despite being far from the mainland, microplastic pollution cannot be ignored. In this study, the level of microplastic pollution in surface sediments from three different zones, namely, the bottom, intertidal, and supratidal zone, was investigated on North Island, Qilianyu Islands. The results showed that the abundance of microplastics in the supratidal zone was significantly higher than that in the bottom zone and intertidal zone (r = 3.65, p = 0.011), with the highest average abundance of microplastics located on the southwest coast of North Island. In the bottom zone, only plastic blocks (88%) and fibers (12%) were found. The main types of microplastics in the intertidal and supratidal zones were plastic blocks (48%) and foam (42%), with polyethylene (PE) (40%) and polystyrene (PS) (34%) being the predominant components. These types and components of microplastics differed from those in the surrounding seawater, but corresponding types and components were found in the plastic debris on the beach. Meanwhile, it was also observed that there were multiple instances of fragmented plastic on the beach. Thus, we suggest that the microplastics on the beach in North Island were mainly derived from the fragmentation of microplastic debris, indicating secondary microplastics. It is recommended to further strengthen the regular cleaning of plastic debris on the beach, especially the removal of small plastic debris, in order to reduce the pollution from secondary microplastics generated by the fragmentation of beach plastic debris and to better protect China's most important sea turtle nesting site in the South China Sea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Zhang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou 571158, China; (T.Z.); (D.L.); (X.A.); (Y.J.); (J.W.); (H.S.)
- Hainan Sansha Provincial Observation and Research Station of Sea Turtle Ecology, Sansha 573100, China; (Y.L.); (Y.L.); (Y.Y.)
| | - Deqin Li
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou 571158, China; (T.Z.); (D.L.); (X.A.); (Y.J.); (J.W.); (H.S.)
| | - Yunteng Liu
- Hainan Sansha Provincial Observation and Research Station of Sea Turtle Ecology, Sansha 573100, China; (Y.L.); (Y.L.); (Y.Y.)
- Marine Protected Area Administration of Sansha City, Sansha 573100, China
| | - Yupei Li
- Hainan Sansha Provincial Observation and Research Station of Sea Turtle Ecology, Sansha 573100, China; (Y.L.); (Y.L.); (Y.Y.)
- Marine Protected Area Administration of Sansha City, Sansha 573100, China
| | - Yangfei Yu
- Hainan Sansha Provincial Observation and Research Station of Sea Turtle Ecology, Sansha 573100, China; (Y.L.); (Y.L.); (Y.Y.)
- Marine Protected Area Administration of Sansha City, Sansha 573100, China
| | - Xiaoyu An
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou 571158, China; (T.Z.); (D.L.); (X.A.); (Y.J.); (J.W.); (H.S.)
- Hainan Sansha Provincial Observation and Research Station of Sea Turtle Ecology, Sansha 573100, China; (Y.L.); (Y.L.); (Y.Y.)
| | - Yongkang Jiang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou 571158, China; (T.Z.); (D.L.); (X.A.); (Y.J.); (J.W.); (H.S.)
- Hainan Sansha Provincial Observation and Research Station of Sea Turtle Ecology, Sansha 573100, China; (Y.L.); (Y.L.); (Y.Y.)
| | - Jichao Wang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou 571158, China; (T.Z.); (D.L.); (X.A.); (Y.J.); (J.W.); (H.S.)
- Hainan Sansha Provincial Observation and Research Station of Sea Turtle Ecology, Sansha 573100, China; (Y.L.); (Y.L.); (Y.Y.)
| | - Haitao Shi
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou 571158, China; (T.Z.); (D.L.); (X.A.); (Y.J.); (J.W.); (H.S.)
- Hainan Sansha Provincial Observation and Research Station of Sea Turtle Ecology, Sansha 573100, China; (Y.L.); (Y.L.); (Y.Y.)
| | - Liu Lin
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou 571158, China; (T.Z.); (D.L.); (X.A.); (Y.J.); (J.W.); (H.S.)
- Hainan Sansha Provincial Observation and Research Station of Sea Turtle Ecology, Sansha 573100, China; (Y.L.); (Y.L.); (Y.Y.)
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Pham CK, Estevez SG, Pereira JM, Herrera L, Rodríguez Y, Domínguez-Hernández C, Villanova-Solano C, Hernández-Sánchez C, Díaz-Peña FJ, Hernández-Borges J. Three-dimensional evaluation of beaches of oceanic islands as reservoirs of plastic particles in the open ocean. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 900:165798. [PMID: 37506916 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
The quantification of plastic debris on beaches has been extensively used as an indicator of plastic pollution in the marine environment. However, most efforts have focused on surface layers, with few investigations looking deeper into the substrate, thus underestimating total standing stocks. Such information is crucial to improve our understanding of where plastic accumulates in the oceans. In this study, we investigated the three-dimensional distribution of plastic (>1 mm) in three sandy beaches located in oceanic islands of the North Atlantic (Azores and the Canary Islands) that are known to accumulate significant quantities of small plastic debris at the surface layer. On each beach, we collected a total of 16 sediment cores down to 1 m depth, from the high tide line up to the backshore following a stratified random sampling design spread across four different levels across the beach. Samples were taken every 10 cm down to 1 m into the sand. Our results revealed the presence of plastic items in the deepest layers with subsurface layers accounting for 84 % of the total plastic abundance and with a similar pattern in terms of size, shape, colour and composition. Furthermore, we found increasing plastic concentrations towards the upper levels of the beach, indicating longer term accumulation in the backshore. Collectively, this study suggests that the plastic items reaching sandy beaches of the Macaronesia are being incorporated into its deepest layers, acting as reservoirs of plastic in the open ocean.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher K Pham
- Instituto de Investigação em Ciências do Mar - OKEANOS, Universidade dos Açores, Horta, Portugal.
| | - Sofia G Estevez
- Instituto de Investigação em Ciências do Mar - OKEANOS, Universidade dos Açores, Horta, Portugal
| | - João M Pereira
- Instituto de Investigação em Ciências do Mar - OKEANOS, Universidade dos Açores, Horta, Portugal
| | - Laura Herrera
- Instituto de Investigação em Ciências do Mar - OKEANOS, Universidade dos Açores, Horta, Portugal
| | - Yasmina Rodríguez
- Instituto de Investigação em Ciências do Mar - OKEANOS, Universidade dos Açores, Horta, Portugal
| | - Cristopher Domínguez-Hernández
- Departamento de Química, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Cristina Villanova-Solano
- Departamento de Química, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Cintia Hernández-Sánchez
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Francisco J Díaz-Peña
- Departamento de Biología Animal, Edafología y Geología, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Javier Hernández-Borges
- Departamento de Química, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
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7
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Pellegrini C, Saliu F, Bosman A, Sammartino I, Raguso C, Mercorella A, Galvez DS, Petrizzo A, Madricardo F, Lasagni M, Clemenza M, Trincardi F, Rovere M. Hotspots of microplastic accumulation at the land-sea transition and their spatial heterogeneity: The Po River prodelta (Adriatic Sea). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 895:164908. [PMID: 37385497 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.164908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
Deltas are the locus of river-borne sediment accumulation, however, their role in sequestering plastic pollutants is still overlooked. By combining geomorphological, sedimentological, and geochemical analyses, which include time-lapse multibeam bathymetry, sediment provenance, and μFT-IR analyses, we investigate the fate of plastic particles after a river flood event providing an unprecedented documentation of the spatial distribution of sediment as well as of microplastics (MPs), including particles fibers, and phthalates (PAEs) abundances in the subaqueous delta. Overall sediments are characterized by an average of 139.7 ± 80 MPs/kg d.w., but display spatial heterogeneity of sediment and MPs accumulation: MPs are absent within the active sandy delta lobe, reflecting dilution by clastic sediment (ca. 1.3 Mm3) and sediment bypass. The highest MP concentration (625 MPs/kg d.w.) occurs in the distal reaches of the active lobe where flow energy dissipates. In addition to MPs, cellulosic fibers are relevant (of up to 3800 fibers/kg d.w.) in all the analyzed sediment samples, and dominate (94 %) with respect to synthetic polymers. Statistically significant differences in the relative concentration of fiber fragments ≤0.5 mm in size were highlighted between the active delta lobe and the migrating bedforms in the prodelta. Fibers were found to slightly follow a power law size distribution coherent with a one-dimensional fragmentation model and thus indicating the absence of a size dependent selection mechanism during burial. Multivariate statistical analysis suggests traveling distance and bottom-transport regime as the most relevant factors controlling particle distribution. Our findings suggest that subaqueous prodelta should be considered hot spots for the accumulation of MPs and associated pollutants, albeit the strong lateral heterogeneity in their abundances reflects changes in the relative influence of fluvial and marine processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Pellegrini
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Istituto di Scienze Marine (ISMAR-CNR), Italy.
| | - F Saliu
- Earth and Environmental Science Department, University of Milano Bicocca, Milano, Italy
| | - A Bosman
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Istituto di Geologia Ambientale e Geoingegneria (IGAG), Italy
| | - I Sammartino
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Istituto di Scienze Marine (ISMAR-CNR), Italy
| | - C Raguso
- Earth and Environmental Science Department, University of Milano Bicocca, Milano, Italy
| | - A Mercorella
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Istituto di Scienze Marine (ISMAR-CNR), Italy
| | - D S Galvez
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Istituto di Scienze Marine (ISMAR-CNR), Italy
| | - A Petrizzo
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Istituto di Scienze Marine (ISMAR-CNR), Italy
| | - F Madricardo
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Istituto di Scienze Marine (ISMAR-CNR), Italy
| | - M Lasagni
- Earth and Environmental Science Department, University of Milano Bicocca, Milano, Italy
| | - M Clemenza
- INFN Sezione di Milano-Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 3, 20126 Milano, Italy
| | - F Trincardi
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Dipartimento di Scienze del Sistema Terra e Tecnologie per l'Ambiente (DSSTTA), Rome, Italy
| | - M Rovere
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Istituto di Scienze Marine (ISMAR-CNR), Italy
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8
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Ramilo-Henry M, Umbelina B, Matilde E, Duncan EM. Plastic pollution on remote islands: A baseline study of Príncipe, Gulf of Guinea. MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 191:106181. [PMID: 37738737 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2023.106181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
Plastic is the most abundant marine anthropogenic debris in the ocean and is of serious global environmental concern. Projects aimed at monitoring plastic pollution quantities are key in evaluating the success of reduction. This study provides baseline information on the quantities of marine debris found on the island of Príncipe in the Gulf of Guinea in the Atlantic coast of Central Africa. A total of 13,196 items were collected with 64.5% of these items being plastic. Plastic pieces the size of 2.5-50 cm made up 20.8% of all plastic items, followed by plastic bags (13.3%) and fishing material (11.39%). The density of mesoplastic items (<25 and >5mm) ranged between 0 and 6.78 items m-2. Beach location, community presence, and beach level (for turtle-nesting beaches) were important factors in explaining differences in plastic abundance and density around the island. Our results highlight the significance of high plastic pollution accumulation on remote islands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maguiña Ramilo-Henry
- Fundação Príncipe, a Registered Charity in São Tomé and Príncipe, Rua Horta Cana, Santo António, Príncipe, Island, São Tomé and Príncipe, South Africa.
| | - Belzamiel Umbelina
- Fundação Príncipe, a Registered Charity in São Tomé and Príncipe, Rua Horta Cana, Santo António, Príncipe, Island, São Tomé and Príncipe, South Africa
| | - Estrela Matilde
- Fundação Príncipe, a Registered Charity in São Tomé and Príncipe, Rua Horta Cana, Santo António, Príncipe, Island, São Tomé and Príncipe, South Africa
| | - Emily M Duncan
- Fundação Príncipe, a Registered Charity in São Tomé and Príncipe, Rua Horta Cana, Santo António, Príncipe, Island, São Tomé and Príncipe, South Africa; Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9EZ, United Kingdom
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9
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Şener İ, Yabanlı M. Macro- and microplastic abundance from recreational beaches along the South Aegean Sea (Türkiye). MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 194:115329. [PMID: 37499467 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115329] [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: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the abundance and diversity of macro- and microplastics in sand samples collected during summer and winter from eight different beaches used for recreational purposes located on the South Aegean coasts of Türkiye. According to the results, microplastic in fiber shape was dominant on all the beaches. The highest microplastic abundance was determined at Ölüdeniz Kumburnu Beach (360.00 ± 237.66 particles kg-1 dw) in summer and at Aktur Beach (358.33 ± 397.24 particles kg-1 dw) in winter. A significant positive correlation was found in the winter between microplastic amounts and wind speed. The study area is an important touristic center faraway from major cities and industrial areas. Thus, plastic pollution in this area may be the result of tourism activities in the summer, discharge waters from wastewater treatment plants or transportation by meteorological factors (like waves, wind or river flows).
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Affiliation(s)
- İdris Şener
- Department of Aquatic Sciences, Faculty of Fisheries, Mugla Sitki Kocman University, Mugla, Turkey.
| | - Murat Yabanlı
- Department of Aquatic Sciences, Faculty of Fisheries, Mugla Sitki Kocman University, Mugla, Turkey
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10
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Pervez R, Lai Y, Song Y, Li X, Lai Z. Impact of microplastic pollution on coastal ecosystems using comprehensive beach quality indices. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 194:115304. [PMID: 37481896 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies of Microplastics (Mps) pollution focused on abundance, effect on organisms, and origins. Mps could also be indicators to evaluate pollution level. Beach Quality Indices (BQIs) are useful in understanding Mps pollution level. This study is to assess magnitude, impact and quality of beaches using BQIs, by determining abundance, shape, and size of Mps in beach sediments, which is the first effort in China. Three BQIs, i.e. Microplastic Pollution Index (MPPI), Environmental Status Index (ESI), Coefficient of Microplastic Impact (CMPI), were employed involving Sector Analysis Approach. All beaches had "very high" abundance by MPPI, were classified "bad" by ESI, and fell in "red" sector using Sector Analysis Approach by intergradation of MPPI and ESI. The impact of fiber morphology was "extreme" based on CMPI. The average abundance was 664±80 Mps/kg. Fibers occupied >97 % of Mps, with 31 % of black Mps. A model was proposed to determine Mps origins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rashid Pervez
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Disaster Prediction and Prevention, Shantou University, Shantou 515063, China; and Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Zhuhai 519082, China.
| | - Yuansen Lai
- Xi'An Tieyi International Curriculum Center, Xi'An 710054, China
| | - Yingjin Song
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Disaster Prediction and Prevention, Shantou University, Shantou 515063, China; and Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Zhuhai 519082, China
| | - Xixi Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Disaster Prediction and Prevention, Shantou University, Shantou 515063, China; and Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Zhuhai 519082, China
| | - Zhongping Lai
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Disaster Prediction and Prevention, Shantou University, Shantou 515063, China; and Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Zhuhai 519082, China.
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11
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Li A, Cui H, Sheng Y, Qiao J, Li X, Huang H. Global plastic upcycling during and after the COVID-19 pandemic: The status and perspective. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMICAL ENGINEERING 2023; 11:110092. [PMID: 37200549 PMCID: PMC10167783 DOI: 10.1016/j.jece.2023.110092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution has become one of the most pressing environmental issues worldwide since the vast majority of post-consumer plastics are hard to degrade in the environment. The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic had disrupted the previous effort of plastic pollution mitigation to a great extent due to the overflow of plastic-based medical waste. In the post-pandemic era, the remaining challenge is how to motivate global action towards a plastic circular economy. The need for one package of sustainable and systematic plastic upcycling approaches has never been greater to address such a challenge. In this review, we summarized the threat of plastic pollution during COVID-19 to public health and ecosystem. In order to solve the aforementioned challenges, we present a shifting concept, regeneration value from plastic waste, that provides four promising pathways to achieve a sustainable circular economy: 1) Increasing reusability and biodegradability of plastics; 2) Transforming plastic waste into high-value products by chemical approaches; 3) The closed-loop recycling can be promoted by biodegradation; 4) Involving renewable energy into plastic upcycling. Additionally, the joint efforts from different social perspectives are also encouraged to create the necessary economic and environmental impetus for a circular economy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anni Li
- School of Food Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Haiyang Cui
- RWTH Aachen University, Templergraben 55, 52062 Aachen, Germany
| | - Yijie Sheng
- School of Food Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Qiao
- School of Food Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiujuan Li
- School of Food Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - He Huang
- School of Food Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210009, People's Republic of China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, No. 30 South Puzhu Road, Nanjing 211816, People's Republic of China
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12
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Matupang DM, Zulkifli HI, Arnold J, Lazim AM, Ghaffar MA, Musa SM. Tropical sharks feasting on and swimming through microplastics: First evidence from Malaysia. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 189:114762. [PMID: 36870137 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114762] [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: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Plastic can be degraded into microplastic (<5 mm) and has been polluting worldwide marine environment and negatively impact human health. Microplastics in marine organisms are still understudied in Malaysia, let alone from a subclass Elasmobranchii. Five tropical shark species (Carcharhinus dussumieri, Carcharhinus sorrah, Chiloscyllium hasseltii, Chiloscyllium punctatum, and Scoliodon laticaudus) were examined for the presence of microplastics. 74 sharks were sampled from the local wet market and 100 % of samples contained microplastics. A total of 2211 plastic particles were found in gastrointestinal tracts (GIT) and gills, where 29.88 ± 2.34 particles per shark (mean ± SEM). Black (40.07 %) and fiber (84.44 %) microplastics were the most dominant. Extracted microplastic sizes ranged from 0.007 mm to 4.992 mm. This study suggests that microplastic uptake is gender-related for some shark species. A subsample of microplastics (10 %) was used for polymer type identification, where polyester was recorded the highest (43.95 %).
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel M Matupang
- Marine Science Programme, Department of Earth Sciences and Environment, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Haziq I Zulkifli
- Marine Science Programme, Department of Earth Sciences and Environment, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Jonathan Arnold
- Marine Science Programme, Department of Earth Sciences and Environment, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Azwan Mat Lazim
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Mazlan Abd Ghaffar
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia; Climate Change Adaptation Laboratory, Institute of Marine Biotechnology, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Syafiq M Musa
- Marine Science Programme, Department of Earth Sciences and Environment, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia; Marine Ecosystem Research Centre (EKOMAR), Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Malaysia.
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13
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Gül MR. Short-term tourism alters abundance, size, and composition of microplastics on sandy beaches. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 316:120561. [PMID: 36328281 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.120561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics have become a global threat to sandy beach ecosystems. To efficiently manage this threat, potential sources of microplastics should be deeply understood, which requires direct evidence as this is always a challenging task. Previous studies have reported various sources; however, the topic still needs attention to identify other potential sources of microplastics on sandy shores. Therefore, the abundance, size, color, shape, and polymer type of microplastics on nine sandy shores of the Turkish Coast of the Black Sea were examined before and after the regular tourism season to understand whether short-term tourism might be an important source. A total of 3402 microplastic items from 270 sand samples were obtained and examined. Both the abundance and the average size of the microplastics increased after the tourism season associated with the potential number of visitors and beach cleaning efforts. Further, the color, shape, and polymer type of microplastics varied between sampling times. Beach cleaning seemed to be an efficient way to minimize the adverse effect of short-term tourism influence. This study clearly identifies short-term tourism as an important source of microplastics on sandy shores and beach cleaning as an important tool to minimize microplastic abundance. The results of this study are important insights into current literature by identifying another source of microplastics on sandy shores, which should be useful for the potential management actions to reduce the harm of these global pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa Remzi Gül
- Fatsa Faculty of Marine Sciences, Ordu University, Ordu, 52400, Turkey.
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14
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Sewwandi M, Amarathunga AAD, Wijesekara H, Mahatantila K, Vithanage M. Contamination and distribution of buried microplastics in Sarakkuwa beach ensuing the MV X-Press Pearl maritime disaster in Sri Lankan sea. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 184:114074. [PMID: 36095967 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.114074] [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: 05/14/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Abundance of buried microplastics in sand profiles and pellet pollution index at Sarakkuwa beach, at west-coast of Sri Lanka was studied as a case study due to the receival of plastic nurdles and debris from the MV X-Press Pearl ship disaster in May 2021. Sand collected at 7 locations to a depth of 2 m in different depths for a beach segment of 200 × 25 m2 during October 2021 and sand samples obtained from beach surface during March 2020 from the same location were analyzed for microplastics. Beach was contaminated with 2-5 mm sized partially pyrolyzed LDPE fragments and nurdles demonstrating a peak abundance of 13.3702 g/kg and1 mm-500 μm sized LDPE fragments up to 2.0 m depth. High concentrations of Mo and Cr were observed in the sand collected in 2021. Sarakkuwa beach is critically polluted by nurdles, partially pyrolyzed microplastics, and toxic elements from ship disaster.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madushika Sewwandi
- Ecosphere Resilience Research Centre, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda 10250, Sri Lanka
| | - A A D Amarathunga
- National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency, Crow Island, Colombo 15, Sri Lanka
| | - Hasintha Wijesekara
- Department of Natural Resources, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, Belihuloya, Sri Lanka
| | - Kushani Mahatantila
- Chemical and Microbiological Laboratory, Industrial Technology Institute, Colombo 7, Sri Lanka
| | - Meththika Vithanage
- Ecosphere Resilience Research Centre, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda 10250, Sri Lanka.
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15
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Zhang T, Lin L, Li D, Jian L, Li R, Wang J, Shi H. Assessment of trace element contamination in the historical nesting grounds of green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) in Hainan Island, China. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:76394-76403. [PMID: 35668262 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-21057-5] [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: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Trace element pollution is a potential threat to the reproduction of sea turtles. Hainan Island was previously the most important nesting ground of green sea turtles in China before they disappeared approximately 36 years ago. The Chinese government has encouraged restoration work on historical nesting grounds, and it is necessary to evaluate the status of these sites before conducting habitat restoration. This study analyzed the concentrations of seven trace elements in the surface sediments of 13 historical nesting grounds in Hainan. The average concentrations were 19.47 (Cr), 4.67 (Ni), 6.99 (Cu), 0.08 (Cd), 16.68 (Pb), 0.02 (Hg), and 5.27 (As) mg/kg, which were lower than the first-grade limit values of the GB (18668-2002) national standard in China. The concentrations were close to the background value, except for the relatively high Cd value. The potential ecological risk was ranked as Cd > Hg > As > Cu > Pb > Cr. The spatial distribution of trace element contamination in Hainan was uneven, with high potential ecological risk levels of Cd and Hg contamination in Longwan'gang, Shimeiwan, Yazhou Qu, and Fushicun. Marine mariculture, wastewater discharge, and fishing boats are the main sources of trace element contamination in Hainan. We recommend strengthening the control of Hg and Cd contamination sources, monitoring trace elements in relevant/interest areas, and the environmental protection department should curb local residents from directly discharging mariculture wastewater and domestic sewage into the sea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Zhang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou, 571158, China
| | - Liu Lin
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou, 571158, China
| | - Deqin Li
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou, 571158, China
| | - Li Jian
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou, 571158, China
| | - Rui Li
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou, 571158, China
| | - Jichao Wang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou, 571158, China
| | - Haitao Shi
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou, 571158, China.
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16
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Rubin AE, Omeysi L, Zucker I. Mediterranean microplastic contamination: Israel's coastline contributions. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 183:114080. [PMID: 36057156 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.114080] [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: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
This study provides an analysis of the current state of microplastic (MP) contamination along the Mediterranean coastline of Israel. Six strategic sites were monitored in this study - each representing a unique coastal environment. We conclude that Tel Aviv and Hadera, both located near stream estuaries, were highly contaminated (18,777 particles/m3) with MP compared to the other locations. The MP detected included both secondary MP and pristine polymeric pellets. In-depth characterization of the MP illustrated a large percentage of both fragmented and film MP morphologies and the most common MP polymers were polyethylene and polypropylene. Further particle analysis showed that MPs were contaminated with biofilm, including microorganisms such as diatoms, as well as metal residues. Through the spatial analysis presented herein we suggest that local rivers are significant contributors to MP contamination along the Mediterranean Sea coastline of Israel and may pose a direct threat to environment and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrey Ethan Rubin
- Porter School of Earth and Environmental Studies, Faculty of Exact Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Limor Omeysi
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Ines Zucker
- Porter School of Earth and Environmental Studies, Faculty of Exact Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel; School of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel.
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17
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Omeyer LCM, Duncan EM, Aiemsomboon K, Beaumont N, Bureekul S, Cao B, Carrasco LR, Chavanich S, Clark JR, Cordova MR, Couceiro F, Cragg SM, Dickson N, Failler P, Ferraro G, Fletcher S, Fong J, Ford AT, Gutierrez T, Shahul Hamid F, Hiddink JG, Hoa PT, Holland SI, Jones L, Jones NH, Koldewey H, Lauro FM, Lee C, Lewis M, Marks D, Matallana-Surget S, Mayorga-Adame CG, McGeehan J, Messer LF, Michie L, Miller MA, Mohamad ZF, Nor NHM, Müller M, Neill SP, Nelms SE, Onda DFL, Ong JJL, Pariatamby A, Phang SC, Quilliam R, Robins PE, Salta M, Sartimbul A, Shakuto S, Skov MW, Taboada EB, Todd PA, Toh TC, Valiyaveettil S, Viyakarn V, Wonnapinij P, Wood LE, Yong CLX, Godley BJ. Priorities to inform research on marine plastic pollution in Southeast Asia. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 841:156704. [PMID: 35718174 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.156704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Southeast Asia is considered to have some of the highest levels of marine plastic pollution in the world. It is therefore vitally important to increase our understanding of the impacts and risks of plastic pollution to marine ecosystems and the essential services they provide to support the development of mitigation measures in the region. An interdisciplinary, international network of experts (Australia, Indonesia, Ireland, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, the United Kingdom, and Vietnam) set a research agenda for marine plastic pollution in the region, synthesizing current knowledge and highlighting areas for further research in Southeast Asia. Using an inductive method, 21 research questions emerged under five non-predefined key themes, grouping them according to which: (1) characterise marine plastic pollution in Southeast Asia; (2) explore its movement and fate across the region; (3) describe the biological and chemical modifications marine plastic pollution undergoes; (4) detail its environmental, social, and economic impacts; and, finally, (5) target regional policies and possible solutions. Questions relating to these research priority areas highlight the importance of better understanding the fate of marine plastic pollution, its degradation, and the impacts and risks it can generate across communities and different ecosystem services. Knowledge of these aspects will help support actions which currently suffer from transboundary problems, lack of responsibility, and inaction to tackle the issue from its point source in the region. Being profoundly affected by marine plastic pollution, Southeast Asian countries provide an opportunity to test the effectiveness of innovative and socially inclusive changes in marine plastic governance, as well as both high and low-tech solutions, which can offer insights and actionable models to the rest of the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy C M Omeyer
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn, Cornwall TR10 9EZ, United Kingdom.
| | - Emily M Duncan
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn, Cornwall TR10 9EZ, United Kingdom; Institute of Marine Sciences - Okeanos, University of the Azores, Rua Professor Doutor Frederico Machado 4, 9901-862 Horta, Portugal.
| | - Kornrawee Aiemsomboon
- Department of Marine Science, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Nicola Beaumont
- Plymouth Marine Laboratory, Prospect Place, The Hoe, Plymouth, Devon PL1 3DH, United Kingdom
| | - Sujaree Bureekul
- Department of Marine Science, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Bin Cao
- Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 637551, Singapore; School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, 639798, Singapore
| | - Luis R Carrasco
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 14 Science Drive 4, 117543, Singapore
| | - Suchana Chavanich
- Department of Marine Science, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand; Aquatic Resources Research Institute Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - James R Clark
- Plymouth Marine Laboratory, Prospect Place, The Hoe, Plymouth, Devon PL1 3DH, United Kingdom
| | - Muhammad R Cordova
- Research Centre for Oceanography, Indonesian Institute of Sciences (LIPI), Jalan Pasir Putih 1, Ancol Timur, Jakarta 14430, Indonesia; Research Centre for Oceanography, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Jalan Pasir Putih 1, Ancol Timur, Jakarta 14430, Indonesia
| | - Fay Couceiro
- School of Civil Engineering and Surveying, Faculty of Technology, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, Hampshire PO1 3AH, United Kingdom
| | - Simon M Cragg
- Institute of Marine Sciences, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, Hampshire PO4 9LY, United Kingdom; Centre for Enzyme Innovation, School of Biological Sciences, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, Hampshire PO1 2DY, United Kingdom
| | - Neil Dickson
- School of Ocean Sciences, Bangor University, Menai Bridge, Anglesey LL59 5AB, United Kingdom
| | - Pierre Failler
- Centre for Blue Governance, Department of Economics and Finance, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, Hampshire PO1 3DE, United Kingdom
| | - Gianluca Ferraro
- Centre for Blue Governance, Department of Economics and Finance, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, Hampshire PO1 3DE, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen Fletcher
- School of the Environment, Geography and Geosciences, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, Hampshire PO1 3DE, United Kingdom; UN Environment World Conservation Monitoring Centre, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Jenny Fong
- Tropical Marine Science Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Alex T Ford
- Institute of Marine Sciences, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, Hampshire PO4 9LY, United Kingdom
| | - Tony Gutierrez
- School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Institute of Mechanical, Process and Energy Engineering, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Fauziah Shahul Hamid
- Centre for Research in Waste Management, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Jan G Hiddink
- School of Ocean Sciences, Bangor University, Menai Bridge, Anglesey LL59 5AB, United Kingdom
| | - Pham T Hoa
- School of Biotechnology, International University, Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Hinh City, Viet Nam
| | - Sophie I Holland
- School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Institute of Mechanical, Process and Energy Engineering, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Lowenna Jones
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn, Cornwall TR10 9EZ, United Kingdom; Department of Politics and International Relations, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Sheffield, Western Bank, Sheffield S10 2TN, United Kingdom
| | - Nia H Jones
- School of Ocean Sciences, Bangor University, Menai Bridge, Anglesey LL59 5AB, United Kingdom
| | - Heather Koldewey
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn, Cornwall TR10 9EZ, United Kingdom; Zoological Society of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Federico M Lauro
- Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 637551, Singapore; Asian School of the Environment, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, 639798, Singapore
| | - Charlotte Lee
- Division of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, United Kingdom
| | - Matt Lewis
- School of Ocean Sciences, Bangor University, Menai Bridge, Anglesey LL59 5AB, United Kingdom
| | - Danny Marks
- School of Law and Government, Dublin City University, Dublin 9 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sabine Matallana-Surget
- Division of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, United Kingdom
| | | | - John McGeehan
- Centre for Enzyme Innovation, School of Biological Sciences, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, Hampshire PO1 2DY, United Kingdom
| | - Lauren F Messer
- Division of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, United Kingdom
| | - Laura Michie
- Institute of Marine Sciences, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, Hampshire PO4 9LY, United Kingdom
| | - Michelle A Miller
- Asia Research Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Zeeda F Mohamad
- Department of Science and Technology Studies, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nur Hazimah Mohamed Nor
- Asian School of the Environment, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, 639798, Singapore
| | - Moritz Müller
- Faculty of Engineering, Computing and Science, Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus, Kuching 93350, Malaysia
| | - Simon P Neill
- School of Ocean Sciences, Bangor University, Menai Bridge, Anglesey LL59 5AB, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah E Nelms
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn, Cornwall TR10 9EZ, United Kingdom
| | - Deo Florence L Onda
- The Marine Science Institute, Velasquez St., University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Joyce J L Ong
- Asian School of the Environment, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, 639798, Singapore
| | - Agamuthu Pariatamby
- Jeffrey Sachs Centre on Sustainable Development, Sunway University, Selangor Darul Ehsan 47500, Malaysia
| | - Sui C Phang
- Centre for Blue Governance, Department of Economics and Finance, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, Hampshire PO1 3DE, United Kingdom; The Nature Conservancy, London Office, 5 Chancery Lane Suite 403, London WC2A 1LG, United Kingdom
| | - Richard Quilliam
- Division of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, United Kingdom
| | - Peter E Robins
- School of Ocean Sciences, Bangor University, Menai Bridge, Anglesey LL59 5AB, United Kingdom
| | - Maria Salta
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, Hampshire PO1 2DY, United Kingdom
| | - Aida Sartimbul
- Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang 65145, East Java, Indonesia; Marine Resources Exploration and Management (MEXMA) Research Group, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang 65145, East Java, Indonesia
| | - Shiori Shakuto
- Department of Anthropology, School of Social and Political Sciences, The University of Sydney, Social Sciences Building, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Martin W Skov
- School of Ocean Sciences, Bangor University, Menai Bridge, Anglesey LL59 5AB, United Kingdom
| | - Evelyn B Taboada
- BioProcess Engineering and Research Centre, Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Engineering, University of San Carlos, Cebu City 6000, Philippines
| | - Peter A Todd
- Experimental Marine Ecology Laboratory, Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 16 Science Drive 4, 117558, Singapore
| | - Tai Chong Toh
- Tropical Marine Science Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore; College of Alice & Peter Tan, National University of Singapore, 8 College Avenue East, 138615, Singapore
| | - Suresh Valiyaveettil
- Department of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, 3 Science Drive 3, 117543, Singapore
| | - Voranop Viyakarn
- Department of Marine Science, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand; Aquatic Resources Research Institute Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Passorn Wonnapinij
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Science, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand; Centre for Advanced Studies in Tropical Natural Resources, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand; Omics Center for Agriculture, Bioresources, Food and Health, Kasetsart University (OmiKU), Bangkok 10900, Thailand
| | - Louisa E Wood
- Centre for Blue Governance, Department of Economics and Finance, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, Hampshire PO1 3DE, United Kingdom
| | - Clara L X Yong
- Experimental Marine Ecology Laboratory, Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 16 Science Drive 4, 117558, Singapore
| | - Brendan J Godley
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn, Cornwall TR10 9EZ, United Kingdom
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18
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Pedrotti ML, Lombard F, Baudena A, Galgani F, Elineau A, Petit S, Henry M, Troublé R, Reverdin G, Ser-Giacomi E, Kedzierski M, Boss E, Gorsky G. An integrative assessment of the plastic debris load in the Mediterranean Sea. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 838:155958. [PMID: 35580673 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.155958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The Mediterranean Sea is recognized as one of the most polluted areas by floating plastics. During the Tara Mediterranean expedition, an extensive sampling of plastic debris was conducted in seven ecoregions, from Gibraltar to Lebanon with the aim of providing reliable estimates of regional differences in floating plastic loads and plastic characteristics. The abundance, size, surface, circularity and mass of 75,030 pieces were analyzed and classified in a standardized multi-parameter database. Their average abundance was 2.60 × 105 items km-2 (2.25 × 103 to 8.50 × 106 km-2) resulting in an estimate of about 650 billion plastic particles floating on the surface of the Mediterranean. This corresponds to an average of 660 metric tons of plastic, at the lower end of literature estimates. High concentrations of plastic were observed in the northwestern coastal regions, north of the Tyrrhenian Sea, but also off the western and central Mediterranean basins. The Levantine basin south of Cyprus had the lowest concentrations. A Lagrangian Plastic Pollution Index (LPPI) predicting the concentration of plastic debris was validated using the spatial resolution of the data. The advanced state of plastic degradation detected in the analyses led to the conclusion that stranding/fragmentation/resuspension is the key process in the dynamics of floating plastic in Mediterranean surface waters. This is supported by the significant correlation between pollution sources and areas of high plastic concentration obtained by the LPPI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Luiza Pedrotti
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, CNRS UMR 7093, LOV, Villefranche sur Mer, France.
| | - Fabien Lombard
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, CNRS UMR 7093, LOV, Villefranche sur Mer, France
| | - Alberto Baudena
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, CNRS UMR 7093, LOV, Villefranche sur Mer, France
| | | | - Amanda Elineau
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, CNRS UMR 7093, LOV, Villefranche sur Mer, France
| | - Stephanie Petit
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, CNRS UMR 7093, LOV, Villefranche sur Mer, France
| | | | | | - Gilles Reverdin
- Sorbonne Université CNRS/IRD/MNHN (LOCEAN/IPSL UMR 7159), Paris, France
| | - Enrico Ser-Giacomi
- Dept. of Earth, Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Mikaël Kedzierski
- Université Bretagne Sud, UMR CNRS 6027, IRDL, F-56100 Lorient, France
| | - Emmanuel Boss
- School of Marine Sciences, University of Maine, Orono, ME, United States
| | - Gabriel Gorsky
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, CNRS UMR 7093, LOV, Villefranche sur Mer, France
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19
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Zhang T, Lin L, Li D, Wang J, Liu Y, Li R, Wu S, Shi H. Microplastic pollution at Qilianyu, the largest green sea turtle nesting grounds in the northern South China Sea. PeerJ 2022; 10:e13536. [PMID: 35694388 PMCID: PMC9186329 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.13536] [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: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Microplastics, new persistent pollutants, have recently attracted considerable attention. When present in beach sediments, microplastics may adversely affect the nesting and hatching of sea turtles on beaches. In this study, we investigate microplastic pollution at Qilianyu (northeastern Xisha Islands), the largest known nesting ground for green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) in China. We found that the average abundance of microplastics in the beach surface sediments was 338.44 ± 315.69 thousand pieces·m-3 or 1,353.78 ± 853.68 pieces·m-2, with foam and fragments as the main microplastic type identified. The microplastic particles were categorised as small and were predominantly within the 0.05-1 mm size category. Most microplastic particles were white (71.31%). Polystyrene and polyethylene were found to be the most common forms of plastic present. Microplastic pollution was not only observed on the beach surface but also at the bottom of nests approximately 60 cm may be harmful to the incubation of sea turtle eggs. We suggest removing plastic litter, especially small pieces of plastic, on beaches to reduce the threat of microplastic pollution to marine life, including sea turtles. Furthermore, the foam used in aquaculture should be recovered and replaced before it becomes fragmented due to age. In addition, regional cooperation between stakeholders in the South China Sea should be strengthened to collectively promote the reduction and cleanup of marine litter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Zhang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou, China
| | - Liu Lin
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou, China
| | - Deqin Li
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou, China
| | - Jichao Wang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou, China
| | - Yunteng Liu
- Marine Protected Area Administration of Sansha City, Sansha, China
| | - Rui Li
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou, China
| | - Shannan Wu
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou, China
| | - Haitao Shi
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou, China
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20
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Gündoğdu S, Ayat B, Aydoğan B, Çevik C, Karaca S. Hydrometeorological assessments of the transport of microplastic pellets in the Eastern Mediterranean. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 823:153676. [PMID: 35122859 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.153676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pellets were sampled in May and November 2018 during one-week surveys at 13 coastal beaches in Iskenderun Bay/Turkey. Pellet pollution index (PPI) was calculated for the beaches as a tool to assess beach pollution by microplastic pellets. Hydrometeorological conditions, including wind, current, wave, surface run-off, and precipitation, were examined during 2018 to reveal the effect on the transport of microplastic pellets within the study area. Sea-surface heights, including the astronomical tide and the storm surge and the wave runup heights, were also considered in the analysis to study the extent of hydrodynamic forcing on the beach. Hydrometeorological assessments indicated that the pellet concentrations in the coastal zone are mostly related to wind-induced transport. Three major river discharges are considered as the main source of microplastic pellets effluents. A Lagrangian particle transport model was conducted to reveal the possible beaching hotspots of microplastic pellets released from these river mouths. Average microplastic pellets were calculated as 126.04 ± 54.08 items/m2 for May 2018 and 70.22 ± 18.25 items/m2 for November 2018. An overall mean PPI for May 2018 was calculated as 1.13, indicating a moderate degree of pellet pollution, and 0.56 for November 2018, indicating a low degree of pellet pollution. The simulations showed that Orontes River effluents affected the inner Iskenderun Bay coasts more than the Seyhan and Ceyhan River.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sedat Gündoğdu
- Cukurova University, Faculty of Fisheries, Department of Basic Sciences, 01330 Adana, Turkey.
| | - Berna Ayat
- Department of Civil Engineering, Yildiz Technical University, 34349, Esenler, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Burak Aydoğan
- Department of Civil Engineering, Gebze Technical University, 41400, Gebze, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Cem Çevik
- Cukurova University, Faculty of Fisheries, Department of Basic Sciences, 01330 Adana, Turkey
| | - Serkan Karaca
- Cukurova University, Department of Chemistry, 01330 Adana, Turkey
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21
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Sarma H, Hazarika RP, Kumar V, Roy A, Pandit S, Prasad R. Microplastics in marine and aquatic habitats: sources, impact, and sustainable remediation approaches. ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY (SINGAPORE) 2022; 5:39-49. [PMID: 37519772 PMCID: PMC8923096 DOI: 10.1007/s42398-022-00219-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 01/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Plastic trash dumped into water bodies degrade over time into small fragments. These plastic fragments, which come under the category of micro-plastics (MPs), are generally 0.05-5 mm in size, and due to their small size they are frequently consumed by aquatic organisms. As a result, widespread MPs infiltration is a global concern for the aquatic environment, posing a threat to existing life forms. MPs easily bind to other toxic chemicals or metals, acting as vector for such toxic substances and introducing them into life forms. Polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, and other polymers are emerging pollutants that are detrimental to all types of organisms. The main route for MPs into the aquatic ecosystems is through the flushing of urban wastewater. The current paper investigates the origin, environmental fate, and toxicity of MPs, shedding light on their sustainable remediation. Graphical abstract
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Affiliation(s)
- Hemen Sarma
- Bioremediation Technology Research Group, Department of Botany, Bodoland University, Rangalikhata, Deborgaon, Kokrajhar (BTR), Assam 783370 India
| | - Rupshikha Patowary Hazarika
- Environmental Chemistry Laboratory, Life Sciences Division, Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST), Guwahati, Assam 781035 India
| | - Vivek Kumar
- Himalayan School of Biosciences, Swami Rama Himalayan University, Dehradun, Uttarakhand India
| | - Arpita Roy
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Engineering and Technology, Sharda University, Greater Noida, 201306 India
| | - Soumya Pandit
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Basic Sciences and Research, Sharda University, Greater Noida, 201306 India
| | - Ram Prasad
- Department of Botany, Mahatma Gandhi Central University, Motihari, Bihar 845401 India
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22
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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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23
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Amobonye A, Bhagwat P, Raveendran S, Singh S, Pillai S. Environmental Impacts of Microplastics and Nanoplastics: A Current Overview. Front Microbiol 2022; 12:768297. [PMID: 34975796 PMCID: PMC8714882 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.768297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The increasing distribution of miniaturized plastic particles, viz. microplastics (100 nm–5 mm) and nanoplastics (less than 100 nm), across the various ecosystems is currently a subject of major environmental concern. Exacerbating these concerns is the fact that microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) display different properties from their corresponding bulk materials; thus, not much is understood about their full biological and ecological implications. Currently, there is evidence to prove that these miniaturized plastic particles release toxic plastic additives and can adsorb various chemicals, thereby serving as sinks for various poisonous compounds, enhancing their bioavailability, toxicity, and transportation. Furthermore, there is a potential danger for the trophic transfer of MNPs to humans and other higher animals, after being ingested by lower organisms. Thus, this paper critically analyzes our current knowledge with regard to the environmental impacts of MNPs. In this regard, the properties, sources, and damaging effects of MNPs on different habitats, particularly on the biotic components, were elucidated. Similarly, the consequent detrimental effects of these particles on humans as well as the current and future efforts at mitigating these detrimental effects were discussed. Finally, the self-cleaning efforts of the planet via a range of saprophytic organisms on these synthetic particles were also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayodeji Amobonye
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
| | - Prashant Bhagwat
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
| | - Sindhu Raveendran
- Microbial Processes and Technology Division, CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST), Trivandrum, India
| | - Suren Singh
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
| | - Santhosh Pillai
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa
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24
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Zhang T, Lin L, Li D, Wu S, Kong L, Wang J, Shi H. The microplastic pollution in beaches that served as historical nesting grounds for green turtles on Hainan Island, China. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 173:113069. [PMID: 34695689 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.113069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
This study evaluated microplastic pollution in beaches that have served as historical nesting grounds for green turtles in Hainan Island, China and explored the sources of microplastic pollutants to conduct habitat restoration for sea turtles. The average abundance of the microplastics in the beach surface sediments was 2567.38 ± 2937.37 pieces·m-2 or 641.85 ± 734.34 thousand pieces·m-3, foam and plastic block were the main microplastics identified. Microplastic size was predominantly within the 0.05-1 mm category (small microplastic particles), and most microplastic particles were white. Polystyrene and polyethylene were the dominant plastic compositions. The type and compositions of microplastics indicate that most microplastics in this study were broken from large plastic blocks and foam. To reduce the threat of microplastic pollution to marine life, including sea turtles, we suggested removing plastic litter, especially small plastic on beaches, and replacing and recovering the foam used in aquaculture before it ages and fragments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Zhang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou 571158, China
| | - Liu Lin
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou 571158, China
| | - Deqin Li
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou 571158, China
| | - Shannan Wu
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou 571158, China
| | - Li Kong
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou 571158, China
| | - Jichao Wang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou 571158, China
| | - Haitao Shi
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Ecology of Tropical Islands, Key Laboratory of Tropical Animal and Plant Ecology of Hainan Province, College of Life Sciences, Hainan Normal University, Haikou 571158, China.
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25
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Agathokleous E, Iavicoli I, Barceló D, Calabrese EJ. Ecological risks in a 'plastic' world: A threat to biological diversity? JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 417:126035. [PMID: 33992919 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.126035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics pollution is predicted to increase in the coming decades, raising concerns about its effects on living organisms. Although the effects of microplastics on individual organisms have been extensively studied, the effects on communities, biological diversity, and ecosystems remain underexplored. This paper reviews the published literature concerning how microplastics affect communities, biological diversity, and ecosystem processes. Microplastics increase the abundance of some taxa but decrease the abundance of some other taxa, indicating trade-offs among taxa and altered microbial community composition in both the natural environment and animals' gut. The alteration of community composition by microplastics is highly conserved across taxonomic ranks, while the alpha diversity of microbiota is often reduced or increased, depending on the microplastics dose and environmental conditions, suggesting potential threats to biodiversity. Biogeochemical cycles, greenhouse gas fluxes, and atmospheric chemistry, can also be altered by microplastics pollution. These findings suggest that microplastics may impact the U.N. Sustainability Development Goals (SDGs) to improve atmospheric, soil, and water quality and sustaining biodiversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evgenios Agathokleous
- Key Laboratory of Agrometeorology of Jiangsu Province, Department of Ecology, School of Applied Meteorology, Nanjing University of Information Science & Technology (NUIST), Nanjing 210044, China.
| | - Ivo Iavicoli
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Damià Barceló
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research, IDAEA-CSIC, C/ Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034 Barcelona, Spain; Catalan Institute for Water Research, ICRA-CERCA, Emili Grahit 101, 17003 Girona, Spain
| | - Edward J Calabrese
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Morrill I, N344, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
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26
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Prata JC, da Costa JP, Lopes I, Andrady AL, Duarte AC, Rocha-Santos T. A One Health perspective of the impacts of microplastics on animal, human and environmental health. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 777:146094. [PMID: 33677304 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.146094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics contamination is widespread in the environment leading to the exposure of both humans and other biota. While most studies overemphasize direct toxicity of microplastics, particle concentrations, characteristics and exposure conditions being used in these assays needs to be taken into consideration. For instance, toxicity assays that use concentrations over 100,000 times higher than those expected in the environment have limited practical relevance. Thus, adverse effects on animal and human health of current environmental concentrations are identified as a knowledge gap. Conversely, this does not suggest the lack of any significant effects of microplastics on a global scale. The One Health approach provides a novel perspective focused on the intersection of different areas, namely animal, human, and environmental health. This review provides a One Health transdisciplinary approach to microplastics, addressing indirect effects beyond simple toxicological effects. Microplastics can, theoretically, change the abiotic properties of matrices (e.g., soil permeability) and interfere with essential ecosystem functions affecting ecosystem services (e.g., biogeochemical processes) that can in turn impact human health. The gathered information suggests that more research is needed to clarify direct and indirect effects of microplastics on One Health under environmentally relevant conditions, presenting detailed knowledge gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana C Prata
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - João P da Costa
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Isabel Lopes
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Anthony L Andrady
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Armando C Duarte
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Teresa Rocha-Santos
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
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27
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Sridharan S, Kumar M, Bolan NS, Singh L, Kumar S, Kumar R, You S. Are microplastics destabilizing the global network of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystem services? ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2021; 198:111243. [PMID: 33933493 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.111243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2021] [Revised: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Plastic has created a new man-made ecosystem called plastisphere. The plastic pieces including microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) have emerged as a global concern due to their omnipresence in ecosystems and their ability to interact with the biological systems. Nevertheless, the long-term impacts of MPs on biotic and abiotic resources are not completely understood, and existing evidence suggests that MPs are hazardous to various keystones species of the global biomes. MP-contaminated ecosystems show reduced floral and faunal biomass, productivity, nitrogen cycling, oxygen-generation and carbon sequestration, suggesting that MPs have already started affecting ecological biomes. However, not much is known about the influence of MPs towards the ecosystem services (ESs) cascade and its correlation with the biodiversity loss. MPs are perceived as a menace to the global ecosystems, but their possible impacts on the provisional, regulatory, and socio-economic ESs have not been extensively studied. This review investigates not only the potentiality of MPs to perturb the functioning of terrestrial and aquatic biomes, but also the associated social, ecological and economic repercussions. The possible long-term fluxes in the ES network of terrestrial and aquatic niches are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srinidhi Sridharan
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, Uttar Pradesh, India; CSIR National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), Nagpur, 440020, Maharashtra, India
| | - Manish Kumar
- CSIR National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), Nagpur, 440020, Maharashtra, India
| | - Nanthi S Bolan
- Global Centre for Environmental Remediation, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia; Cooperative Research Centre for High Performance Soils, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Lal Singh
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, Uttar Pradesh, India; CSIR National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), Nagpur, 440020, Maharashtra, India
| | - Sunil Kumar
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, Uttar Pradesh, India; CSIR National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), Nagpur, 440020, Maharashtra, India
| | - Rakesh Kumar
- CSIR National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), Nagpur, 440020, Maharashtra, India
| | - Siming You
- James Watt School of Engineering, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, UK.
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Özden Ö, Yıldırım S, Fuller WJ, Godley BJ. Anthropogenic marine litter on the north coast of Cyprus: Insights into marine pollution in the eastern Mediterranean. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 165:112167. [PMID: 33610112 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2020] [Revised: 02/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The eastern Mediterranean is a region that has been relatively understudied with regards to anthropogenic marine litter despite potential for environmental and social costs. Here, coastal marine litter accumulation was assessed at eight beach locations along the coast of Northern Cyprus. Monthly surveys were performed between January 2017 and January 2019. All items ≥ 2.5 cm in diameter within the same 250 m2 plot were collected and processed. A total of 59,556 separate items were collected with a total mass of 697 kg. At the worst affected site (Ronnas Bay) litter accumulation averaged 1114 items and 11.9 kg per month. Plastic and polystyrene litter accounted for 82% (622.71 kg) of all litter types by mass and 96% (57,231) by frequency. Plastic bags, plastic pieces, drinks containers, caps/lids were the four most abundant forms of plastic by mass and by frequency. This suggests dumping/poor domestic waste governance as the main driver of marine litter in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Özge Özden
- Near East University, Department of Landscape Architecture, Nicosia, Cyprus.
| | - Sinem Yıldırım
- Near East University, Department of Landscape Architecture, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Wayne J Fuller
- Near East University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Brendan J Godley
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn TR10 9FE, UK
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Senathirajah K, Attwood S, Bhagwat G, Carbery M, Wilson S, Palanisami T. Estimation of the mass of microplastics ingested - A pivotal first step towards human health risk assessment. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 404:124004. [PMID: 33130380 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2020.124004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 308] [Impact Index Per Article: 102.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
The ubiquitous presence of microplastics in the food web has been established. However, the mass of microplastics exposure to humans is not defined, impeding the human health risk assessment. Our objectives were to extract the data from the available evidence on the number and mass of microplastics from various sources, to determine the uncertainties in the existing data, to set future research directions, and derive a global average rate of microplastic ingestion to assist in the development of human health risk assessments and effective management and policy options. To enable the comparison of microplastics exposure across a range of sources, data extraction and standardization was coupled with the adoption of conservative assumptions. Following the analysis of data from fifty-nine publications, an average mass for individual microplastics in the 0-1 mm size range was calculated. Subsequently, we estimated that globally on average, humans may ingest 0.1-5 g of microplastics weekly through various exposure pathways. This was the first attempt to transform microplastic counts into a mass value relevant to human toxicology. The determination of an ingestion rate is fundamental to assess the human health risks of microplastic ingestion. These findings will contribute to future human health risk assessment frameworks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kala Senathirajah
- Global Innovative Centre for Advanced Nanomaterials(GICAN), Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Simon Attwood
- The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), 354 Tanglin Road, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Geetika Bhagwat
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Maddison Carbery
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Scott Wilson
- Department of Environmental Science, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Thava Palanisami
- Global Innovative Centre for Advanced Nanomaterials(GICAN), Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia.
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Microplastics in Mediterranean Coastal Countries: A Recent Overview. JOURNAL OF MARINE SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/jmse9010098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this paper is to present information gathered from studies regarding the current status and challenges of microplastics (MPs) in Mediterranean coastal counties. MPs are considered emerging pollutants, and their effect on fish and on the final consumer through the trophic food chain are of great concern. Studies from almost all of the Mediterranean coastal countries are gathered and discussed. The source of MPs, as well as their transfer and accumulation are reviewed. In addition, the laboratory techniques for sampling, analysis and characterization of MPs are presented. Moreover, the current regulations for MPs restrictions in Europe will be discussed. Finally, the authors present the current challenges on the topic and provide recommendations for future work.
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Anderson G, Shenkar N. Potential effects of biodegradable single-use items in the sea: Polylactic acid (PLA) and solitary ascidians. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2021; 268:115364. [PMID: 33152630 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.115364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/02/2020] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
With conventional plastics posing a great threat to marine organisms, and potentially also to humans, bio-based, biodegradable plastics are being offered as an ecological solution by which to reduce the environmental impact. Inside compost facilities, bioplastics that comply with the EN 13432:2000 international standard biodegrade almost completely within 180 days. However, outside compost facilities, and specifically in marine environments, these bioplastics may have a similar effect to that of fossil-fuel based plastics. Here we investigated the effects of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polylactic acid (PLA) single-use cups and plates on a solitary ascidian's biological and ecological features. Both PET and PLA microparticles reduced the fertilization rate of Microcosmus exasperatus, with no significant difference between materials. Accumulation rates in adult M. exasperatus exposed to micronized PET and PLA particles at two concentrations were similar for both the bioplastic material and the conventional plastic particles, with no significant difference between the two materials. A microbial-based digestive protocol was developed in order to recover the bioplastic material from ascidian tissue and reduce any material-loss caused by the known digestion protocols. Finally, PET plates submerged for three months in the Red Sea exhibited a significantly higher community richness and cover area in comparison to PLA plates, which did not provide a firm substrate for settlers. Indeed, coverage by the solitary ascidian Herdmania momus was significantly higher on PET plates. The current study demonstrates that discarded bioplastic products may have similar effects to those of conventional plastics on marine organism fertilization and biological accumulation, emphasizing the need to revise both the production and marketing of "biodegradable" and "compostable" plastics in order to prevent a further negative impact on ecosystems due to the mismanagement of bioplastic products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillermo Anderson
- School of Zoology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Noa Shenkar
- School of Zoology, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel; The Steinhardt Museum of Natural History, Israel National Center for Biodiversity Studies, Tel Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel.
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Murano C, Agnisola C, Caramiello D, Castellano I, Casotti R, Corsi I, Palumbo A. How sea urchins face microplastics: Uptake, tissue distribution and immune system response. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 264:114685. [PMID: 32402714 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.114685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Revised: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution represents one of the major threats to the marine environment. A wide range of marine organisms has been shown to ingest microplastics due to their small dimensions (less than 1 mm). This negatively affects some biological processes, such as feeding, energy reserves and reproduction. Very few studies have been performed on the effect of microplastics on sea urchin development and virtually none on adults. The aim of this work was to evaluate the uptake and distribution of fluorescent labelled polystyrene microbeads (micro-PS) in the Mediterranean sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus and the potential impact on circulating immune cells. Differential uptake was observed in the digestive and water vascular systems as well as in the gonads based on microbeads size (10 and 45 μm in diameter). Treatment of sea urchins with particles of both sizes induced an increase of the total number of immune cells already after 24 h. No significant differences were observed among immune cell types. However, the ratio between red and white amoebocytes, indicative of sea urchin healthy status, increased with both particles. This effect was detectable already at 24 h upon exposure to smaller micro-PS (10 μm). An increase of intracellular levels of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species was observed at 24 h upon both micro-PS exposure, whereas at later time these levels became comparable to those of controls. A significant increase of total antioxidant capacity was observed after treatment with 10 μm micro-PS. Overall data provide the first evidence on polystyrene microbeads uptake and tissue distribution in sea urchins, indicating a stress-related impact on circulating immune cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carola Murano
- Department of Biology and Evolution of Marine Organisms, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121, Naples, Italy; Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Claudio Agnisola
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia 4, 80125 Naples, Italy
| | - Davide Caramiello
- Unit Marine Resources for Research, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121, Naples, Italy
| | - Immacolata Castellano
- Department of Biology and Evolution of Marine Organisms, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121, Naples, Italy
| | - Raffaella Casotti
- Department of Integrative Marine Ecology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121, Naples, Italy
| | - Ilaria Corsi
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Anna Palumbo
- Department of Biology and Evolution of Marine Organisms, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121, Naples, Italy.
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Kazour M, Jemaa S, Issa C, Khalaf G, Amara R. Microplastics pollution along the Lebanese coast (Eastern Mediterranean Basin): Occurrence in surface water, sediments and biota samples. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 696:133933. [PMID: 31442726 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.133933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Revised: 08/13/2019] [Accepted: 08/14/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The Mediterranean Sea is the largest semi-enclosed sea and one of the worst affected regional seas with sub-basin scale heterogeneity in plastics concentration. Few studies on microplastics (MPs) pollution have been conducted in the Eastern part of the Mediterranean basin. This study aims to evaluate, for the first time, the MPs pollution of the Lebanese coast (Levantine Basin) as well as the most common polymers found, and to assess the potential role of coastal landfills in this pollution. Two important seafood species that are wholly consumed by the Lebanese community: the European anchovy, Engraulis encrasicolus, and the spiny oysters, Spondylus spinosus, were sampled in three different sites englobing the littoral (Tripoli, Beirut and Sidon). Sea water and sediment samples were also collected from the same sites. Results showed different patterns of MPs concentration in the analyzed matrices: Sidon water sample was highly contaminated in MPs (6.7 MPs/m3) while Tripoli had the highest MPs in sediments (4.68 MPs/g). The occurrence of MPs in the biota was high (83.4% and 86.3% in anchovies and spiny oysters, respectively). Both anchovies and oysters from Beirut region had the highest ingested MPs/individual (2.9 ± 1.9 and 8.3 ± 4.4 MPs/individual, respectively). This study is the first that investigated microplastics ingestion by Spondylus spinosus while indicating the most common polymers found in the three matrices (water, sediments and biota) in the Eastern Mediterranean. These results highlighted the high MPs pollution found in the Levantine Basin in comparison to other Western Mediterranean regions. In addition, the obtained results indicate a potential contribution of coastal landfills to this pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Kazour
- Univ. Littoral Côte d'Opale, CNRS, Univ. Lille, UMR 8187, LOG, Laboratoire d'Océanologie et de Géosciences, 32 Avenue Foch, Wimereux, France; National Center for Marine Sciences, CNRS-L, PO Box 534, Batroun, Lebanon.
| | - Sharif Jemaa
- National Center for Marine Sciences, CNRS-L, PO Box 534, Batroun, Lebanon
| | - Christelle Issa
- National Center for Marine Sciences, CNRS-L, PO Box 534, Batroun, Lebanon
| | - Gaby Khalaf
- National Center for Marine Sciences, CNRS-L, PO Box 534, Batroun, Lebanon
| | - Rachid Amara
- Univ. Littoral Côte d'Opale, CNRS, Univ. Lille, UMR 8187, LOG, Laboratoire d'Océanologie et de Géosciences, 32 Avenue Foch, Wimereux, France
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34
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Gündoğdu S, Çevik C. Mediterranean dirty edge: High level of meso and macroplastics pollution on the Turkish coast. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2019; 255:113351. [PMID: 31627050 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2019.113351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2019] [Revised: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
It has become apparent that the coastal zones of aquatic environments are significantly affected by plastics pollution. The accumulation of marine plastic litter on beaches is an important problem due to their significant environmental impacts. In this study, 13 coastal areas in Iskenderun Bay (NE Levantine coast of Turkey) were sampled in May 2018 to investigate meso and macroplastic (0.5-123.4 cm) pollution. A total of 1424 meso and macroplastic items in five categories (filament, film, foam, fragments, and pellets) were collected. The average meso and macroplastic concentration was 12.2 ± 3.5 pcs m-2 (12.3 ± 3.5 g m-2) and the mean size for all stations was 3.7 ± 0.16 cm. The highest meso and macroplastic concentration was found in the Dörtyol location (46.2 ± 7.6 pcs m-2) and the lowest concentration was found in the Y. Lagün location (2.3 ± 0.2 pcs m-2). Plastics were separated into 14 different groups based on their origins. The most dominant type was hard plastics (broken, fragmented, and deformed) with 59.8% and greenhouse coverage films with 11%. Our results shows that regardless their source plastics fluxes at beaches from various pathways. Results of this study provide useful information for designing monitoring strategies and setting management goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sedat Gündoğdu
- Cukurova University Faculty of Fisheries, Department of Basic Sciences, 01330, Adana, Turkey.
| | - Cem Çevik
- Cukurova University Faculty of Fisheries, Department of Basic Sciences, 01330, Adana, Turkey
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35
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Duncan EM, Arrowsmith JA, Bain CE, Bowdery H, Broderick AC, Chalmers T, Fuller WJ, Galloway TS, Lee JH, Lindeque PK, Omeyer LCM, Snape RTE, Godley BJ. Diet-related selectivity of macroplastic ingestion in green turtles (Chelonia mydas) in the eastern Mediterranean. Sci Rep 2019; 9:11581. [PMID: 31399637 PMCID: PMC6688982 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-48086-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the drivers of key interactions between marine vertebrates and plastic pollution is now considered a research priority. Sea turtles are primarily visual predators, with the ability to discriminate according to colour and shape; therefore these factors play a role in feeding choices. Classification methodologies of ingested plastic currently do not record these variables, however here, refined protocols allow us to test the hypothesis that plastic is selectively ingested when it resembles the food items of green turtles (Chelonia mydas). Turtles in the eastern Mediterranean displayed strong diet-related selectivity towards certain types (sheet and threadlike), colours (black, clear and green) and shapes (linear items strongly preferred) of plastic when compared to the environmental baseline of plastic beach debris. There was a significant negative relationship between size of turtle (curved carapace length) and number/mass of plastic pieces ingested, which may be explained through naivety and/or ontogenetic shifts in diet. Further investigation in other species and sites are needed to more fully ascertain the role of selectivity in plastic ingestion in this marine vertebrate group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily M Duncan
- Marine Turtle Research Group, Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9FE, UK.,College of Life and Environmental Sciences: Biosciences, Geoffrey Pope Building, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter, EX4 4PY, UK.,Marine Ecology and Biodiversity, Plymouth Marine Laboratory, Prospect Place, West Hoe, Plymouth, PL1 3DH, UK
| | - Jessica A Arrowsmith
- Marine Turtle Research Group, Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9FE, UK
| | - Charlotte E Bain
- Marine Turtle Research Group, Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9FE, UK
| | - Hannah Bowdery
- Marine Turtle Research Group, Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9FE, UK
| | - Annette C Broderick
- Marine Turtle Research Group, Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9FE, UK
| | - Tierney Chalmers
- Marine Turtle Research Group, Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9FE, UK
| | - Wayne J Fuller
- Marine Turtle Research Group, Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9FE, UK.,Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Near East University, Nicosia, North Cyprus Mersin 10, Turkey.,Society for Protection of Turtles, PK65, Kyrenia, North Cyprus Mersin 10, Turkey
| | - Tamara S Galloway
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences: Biosciences, Geoffrey Pope Building, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter, EX4 4PY, UK
| | - Jonathon H Lee
- Marine Turtle Research Group, Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9FE, UK
| | - Penelope K Lindeque
- Marine Ecology and Biodiversity, Plymouth Marine Laboratory, Prospect Place, West Hoe, Plymouth, PL1 3DH, UK
| | - Lucy C M Omeyer
- Marine Turtle Research Group, Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9FE, UK
| | - Robin T E Snape
- Marine Turtle Research Group, Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9FE, UK.,Society for Protection of Turtles, PK65, Kyrenia, North Cyprus Mersin 10, Turkey
| | - Brendan J Godley
- Marine Turtle Research Group, Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9FE, UK.
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36
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Gündoğdu S, Yeşilyurt İN, Erbaş C. Potential interaction between plastic litter and green turtle Chelonia mydas during nesting in an extremely polluted beach. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2019; 140:138-145. [PMID: 30803627 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2019.01.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2018] [Revised: 01/15/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
This study examines the extent of macroplastic pollution on Samandağ beach and the potential effects on green sea turtles during nesting. For this purpose, a total of 39 different turtle tracks were studied. Mean plastic concentration was found to be 19.5 ± 1.2 pcs m-2. Among the different types of crawling, the highest concentrations of plastics were found on the tracks of turtles that did not attempt to dig nests (25.9 ± 8.4 pcs m-2). In total, 7 different types of plastics (disposable, film, fishing-related, foam, fragments, miscellaneous, and textile) were found, with film-type plastics being the most prevalent (11 pcs m-2). Samandağ beach was found to be greatly more polluted than any other beach in the Mediterranean Sea. We concluded that this pollution can cause negative effects, especially entanglement and entrapment, on green sea turtle females and hatchlings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sedat Gündoğdu
- Cukurova University, Faculty of Fisheries, Department of Basic Sciences, 01330 Adana, Turkey.
| | - İrem Nur Yeşilyurt
- Cukurova University, Faculty of Fisheries, Department of Basic Sciences, 01330 Adana, Turkey.
| | - Celal Erbaş
- Cukurova University, Yumurtalık Vacational School, 01330 Adana, Turkey.
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Duncan EM, Broderick AC, Fuller WJ, Galloway TS, Godfrey MH, Hamann M, Limpus CJ, Lindeque PK, Mayes AG, Omeyer LCM, Santillo D, Snape RTE, Godley BJ. Microplastic ingestion ubiquitous in marine turtles. GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY 2019; 25:744-752. [PMID: 30513551 PMCID: PMC6849705 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.14519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Despite concerns regarding the environmental impacts of microplastics, knowledge of the incidence and levels of synthetic particles in large marine vertebrates is lacking. Here, we utilize an optimized enzymatic digestion methodology, previously developed for zooplankton, to explore whether synthetic particles could be isolated from marine turtle ingesta. We report the presence of synthetic particles in every turtle subjected to investigation (n = 102) which included individuals from all seven species of marine turtle, sampled from three ocean basins (Atlantic [ATL]: n = 30, four species; Mediterranean (MED): n = 56, two species; Pacific (PAC): n = 16, five species). Most particles (n = 811) were fibres (ATL: 77.1% MED: 85.3% PAC: 64.8%) with blue and black being the dominant colours. In lesser quantities were fragments (ATL: 22.9%: MED: 14.7% PAC: 20.2%) and microbeads (4.8%; PAC only; to our knowledge the first isolation of microbeads from marine megavertebrates). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) of a subsample of particles (n = 169) showed a range of synthetic materials such as elastomers (MED: 61.2%; PAC: 3.4%), thermoplastics (ATL: 36.8%: MED: 20.7% PAC: 27.7%) and synthetic regenerated cellulosic fibres (SRCF; ATL: 63.2%: MED: 5.8% PAC: 68.9%). Synthetic particles being isolated from species occupying different trophic levels suggest the possibility of multiple ingestion pathways. These include exposure from polluted seawater and sediments and/or additional trophic transfer from contaminated prey/forage items. We assess the likelihood that microplastic ingestion presents a significant conservation problem at current levels compared to other anthropogenic threats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily M. Duncan
- Marine Turtle Research Group, Centre for Ecology and ConservationUniversity of ExeterPenrynUK
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences: BiosciencesUniversity of ExeterExeterUK
- Marine Ecology and BiodiversityPlymouth Marine LaboratoryPlymouthUK
| | - Annette C. Broderick
- Marine Turtle Research Group, Centre for Ecology and ConservationUniversity of ExeterPenrynUK
| | - Wayne J. Fuller
- Marine Turtle Research Group, Centre for Ecology and ConservationUniversity of ExeterPenrynUK
- Faculty of Veterinary MedicineNear East UniversityNicosiaNorth CyprusTurkey
- Society for Protection of TurtlesKyreniaNorth CyprusTurkey
| | - Tamara S. Galloway
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences: BiosciencesUniversity of ExeterExeterUK
| | | | - Mark Hamann
- College of Science and EngineeringJames Cook UniversityTownsvilleQLDAustralia
| | - Colin J. Limpus
- Department of Environment and ScienceThreatened Species UnitBrisbaneQLDAustralia
| | | | - Andrew G. Mayes
- School of ChemistryUniversity of East Anglia, Norwich Research ParkNorwichUK
| | - Lucy C. M. Omeyer
- Marine Turtle Research Group, Centre for Ecology and ConservationUniversity of ExeterPenrynUK
| | - David Santillo
- Greenpeace Research Laboratories, School of Biosciences, Innovation Centre Phase 2University of ExeterExeterUK
| | - Robin T. E. Snape
- Marine Turtle Research Group, Centre for Ecology and ConservationUniversity of ExeterPenrynUK
- Society for Protection of TurtlesKyreniaNorth CyprusTurkey
| | - Brendan J. Godley
- Marine Turtle Research Group, Centre for Ecology and ConservationUniversity of ExeterPenrynUK
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