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Høiberg MA, Stadler K, Verones F. Disentangling marine plastic impacts in Life Cycle Assessment: Spatially explicit Characterization Factors for ecosystem quality. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 949:175019. [PMID: 39059661 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.175019] [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: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
Inputs of persistent plastic items to marine environments continue to pose a serious and long-term threat to marine fauna and ecosystem health, justifying further interventions on local and global scales. While Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is frequently used for sustainability evaluations by industries and policymakers, plastic leakage to the environment and its subsequent impacts remains absent from the framework. Incorporating plastic pollution in the assessments requires development of both inventories and impact assessment methods. Here, we propose spatially explicit Characterization Factors (CF) for quantifying the impacts of plastic entanglement on marine megafauna (mammals, birds and reptiles) on a global scale. We utilize Lagrangian particle tracking and a Species Sensitivity Distribution (SSD) model along with species susceptibility records to estimate potential entanglement impacts stemming from lost plastic-based fishing gear. By simulating plastic losses from fishing hotspots within all Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) we provide country-specific impact estimates for use in LCA. The impacts were found to be similar across regions, although the median CF associated with Oceania was higher compared to Europe, Africa and Asia. Our findings underscore the presence of susceptible species across the world and the transboundary issue of plastic pollution. We discuss the application of the factors and identify areas of further refinement that can contribute towards a comprehensive assessment of macroplastic pollution in sustainability assessments. Degradation and beaching rates for different types of fishing gear remain a research gap, along with population-level effects on marine taxa beyond surface breathing megafauna. Increasing the coverage of impacts specific to the marine realm in LCA alongside other stressors can facilitate informed decision-making towards more sustainable marine resource management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marthe A Høiberg
- Industrial Ecology Programme, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Konstantin Stadler
- Industrial Ecology Programme, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Francesca Verones
- Industrial Ecology Programme, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
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2
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Courtene-Jones W, Cheung SWH, Thompson RC, Hanley ME. Effect of biodegradable and conventional microplastic exposure in combination with seawater inundation on the coastal terrestrial plant Plantago coronopus. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 360:124573. [PMID: 39029863 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124573] [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: 05/21/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
Coastal ecosystems face a multitude of pressures including plastic pollution and increased flood risk due to sea level rise and the frequency and severity of storms. Experiments seldom examine multiple stressors such as these, but here we quantified the effect of microplastics (polyethylene terephthalate (PET): a durable plastic and polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT): a biodegradable polymer), in combination with simulated seawater inundation on the coastal species Plantago coronopus. After 35-days exposure to plastic (0.02 g.Kg-1, <300 μm diameter), P. coronopus were flooded to pot height with artificial seawater for 72-h, drained and grown for a further 24-days. Plant mortality, necrosis and photosynthetic efficiency (Fv/Fm) were recorded throughout, with root:shoot biomass and scape production (flower stalks) quantified at harvest. There were significant interactions between microplastics and seawater on the root:shoot ratio; a measure of resource allocation. The allocation to belowground biomass increased significantly under the PET + inundation treatment compared to the PBAT + inundation and the no plastic + inundation treatments, with potential consequences on the capture of water, nutrients and sunlight, which can affect plant performance. Plant necrosis significantly increased, and Fv/Fm declined as a result of seawater inundation. While not significant, plant Fv/Fm responses were influenced by microplastics (17% and 7% reduction in PBAT and PET exposure respectively compared to the no plastic control). Plants mediated this stress response with no discernible treatment-specific effects detected in Fv/Fm 14-days after seawater introduction. Plastic exposure significantly influenced potential reproductive output, with lower average scape numbers across PBAT treatments, but higher in PET treatments. This study highlights the complex interactions and potential for microplastics to present an elevated risk when in combination with additional stressors like seawater flooding; establishing the threat presented to ecosystem resilience in a changing world is a priority.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Courtene-Jones
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth, Devon, PL4 8AA, UK.
| | - S W H Cheung
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth, Devon, PL4 8AA, UK
| | - R C Thompson
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth, Devon, PL4 8AA, UK
| | - M E Hanley
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth, Devon, PL4 8AA, UK
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3
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Domínguez-Hernández C, Villanova-Solano C, Álvarez-Méndez SJ, Pestano M, Tejera G, Arias Á, Díaz-Peña FJ, Hernández-Borges J, Hernández-Sánchez C. Anthropogenic debris pollution in yellow-legged gull (Larus michahellis atlantis) nests in biosphere reserves of the Canary Islands. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 949:175209. [PMID: 39098411 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.175209] [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: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 07/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
Anthropogenic debris, particularly plastic pollution, has emerged as a significant environmental threat to biodiversity. Given that seabirds interact with artificial debris through ingestion, entanglement, and nest incorporation, it is particularly important to quantify the quantity, origins, and chemical composition of these debris items. In this work, it was evaluated for the first time the occurrence of anthropogenic debris in nests of yellow-legged gull (Larus michahellis atlantis) in biosphere reserves of the Canary Islands (Spain). A total of 48 abandoned nests were collected from five remote and hardly accessible sampling areas, revealing that 81.3 % contained anthropogenic waste, with plastic accounting for 34.7 % of the debris, followed by metal (33.6 %) and paper (19.6 %). On average, 32.8 ± 40.9 items were found per nest. Regarding the origin, food packagings (47.8 %), personal hygiene products (21.7 %), and textiles (15.8 %) were identified as the predominant sources. Furthermore, the polymer composition of the plastics was characterised by means of Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy analysis, being polyester the most abundant (38.2 %), followed by polyethylene (25.6 %) and rayon (10.3 %). The incorporation of anthropogenic debris into nest construction may result from outdoor human activities carried out far from nesting areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristopher Domínguez-Hernández
- Departamento de Química, Unidad Departamental de Química Analítica, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de La Laguna, Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, 38206 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain; Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, s/n°, 38206 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Cristina Villanova-Solano
- Departamento de Química, Unidad Departamental de Química Analítica, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de La Laguna, Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, 38206 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain; Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, s/n°, 38206 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Sergio J Álvarez-Méndez
- Departamento de Química Orgánica, Universidad de La Laguna, Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, s/n°, 38206 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Miguel Pestano
- Departamento de Química, Unidad Departamental de Química Analítica, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de La Laguna, Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, 38206 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Gustavo Tejera
- Canary Islands' Ornithology and Natural History Group (GOHNIC), Buenavista del Norte, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Ángeles Arias
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Francisco J Díaz-Peña
- Departamento de Biología Animal, Edafología y Geología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de La Laguna, Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, s/n, 38206 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Javier Hernández-Borges
- Departamento de Química, Unidad Departamental de Química Analítica, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de La Laguna, Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, 38206 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain; Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, s/n°, 38206 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Cintia Hernández-Sánchez
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, s/n°, 38206 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain; Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain.
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Zimmer-Correa M, Carneiro Proietti M, Couto Di Tullio J, Rodrigues LDS, Quadro Oreste E, Kessler F, Bassoi M, Botta S. Plastic ingestion by odontocetes from the Western South Atlantic: A particular concern to a threatened species. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 360:124659. [PMID: 39097262 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124659] [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: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 06/29/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
The ingestion of debris by marine fauna is a growing threat to biodiversity. This study aimed to evaluate and characterize litter ingestion by odontocetes from the Western South Atlantic. Between 2018 and 2022, 154 stomachs from six species were collected from stranded individuals and incidental captures. Stomach contents were analyzed with the naked eye and items of anthropic origin found were counted and physically/chemically characterized. Generalized Linear Models were used to evaluate the influence of biological factors on the presence/absence of litter in stomachs, and for Pontoporia blainvillei only, the influence of these factors on the number of ingested items was also tested; additionally, a temporal analysis of ingestion was done for this species (1994-2022). A total of 156 items, mainly macro-sized plastics made of polypropylene, were found in 52 stomachs of four species: Tursiops spp. (FO% = 3.3%), Steno bredanensis (10.0%), Delphinus delphis (28.6%) and P. blainvillei (47.5%). The presence/absence of litter was explained only by species (χ2 = 28.29 and p < 0.001). For P. blainvillei, a threatened species in the region, the number of items was positively influenced by individual size (χ2 = 6.01 and p = 0.01) and sex (χ2 = 7.93 and p = 0.005). There was an increase in plastic ingestion by this species over the years (χ2 = 121.6 and p < 0.001) and it was estimated that 75% of P. blainvillei stomachs will contain plastic by 2040. The ingestion of litter by odontocetes from the Western South Atlantic was confirmed and the potential risks posed by this type of pollution were evidenced, especially since these species also face other anthropic pressures. These results further demonstrate the increasing threat of litter in the ocean and highlight the importance of circularity of plastics and proper waste management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Zimmer-Correa
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Oceanografia Biológica, Instituto de Oceanografia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande - FURG, Rio Grande, Brazil; Laboratório de Ecologia e Conservação da Megafauna Marinha (ECOMEGA), Instituto de Oceanografia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande - FURG, Rio Grande, Brazil.
| | - Maíra Carneiro Proietti
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Oceanografia Biológica, Instituto de Oceanografia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande - FURG, Rio Grande, Brazil; Projeto Lixo Marinho, Instituto de Oceanografia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande - FURG, Rio Grande, Brazil; The Ocean Cleanup, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Juliana Couto Di Tullio
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Oceanografia Biológica, Instituto de Oceanografia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande - FURG, Rio Grande, Brazil; Laboratório de Ecologia e Conservação da Megafauna Marinha (ECOMEGA), Instituto de Oceanografia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande - FURG, Rio Grande, Brazil
| | - Lucas Dos S Rodrigues
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Oceanografia Biológica, Instituto de Oceanografia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande - FURG, Rio Grande, Brazil; Laboratório de Dinâmica Populacional Pesqueira, Instituto de Oceanografia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande - FURG, Rio Grande, Brazil; Departament d'Estadística i Investigació Operativa, Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain
| | - Eliezer Quadro Oreste
- Laboratório de Físico-Química Aplicada e Tecnológica (LAFQAT), Escola de Química e Alimentos, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande - FURG, Rio Grande, Brazil
| | - Felipe Kessler
- Laboratório de Físico-Química Aplicada e Tecnológica (LAFQAT), Escola de Química e Alimentos, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande - FURG, Rio Grande, Brazil
| | - Manuela Bassoi
- Laboratório de Ecologia e Conservação da Megafauna Marinha (ECOMEGA), Instituto de Oceanografia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande - FURG, Rio Grande, Brazil; Laboratório de Bioacústica (LaB), Centro de Biociências, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte - UFRN, Natal, Brazil
| | - Silvina Botta
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Oceanografia Biológica, Instituto de Oceanografia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande - FURG, Rio Grande, Brazil; Laboratório de Ecologia e Conservação da Megafauna Marinha (ECOMEGA), Instituto de Oceanografia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande - FURG, Rio Grande, Brazil
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Jylhä-Vuorio A, Näkki P, Setälä O, Lehikoinen A, Lehtiniemi M. Incorporation of plastic debris into the nests of great cormorants (Phalacrocorax carbo sinensis) in the Gulf of Finland. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 208:116934. [PMID: 39361996 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 08/28/2024] [Accepted: 09/02/2024] [Indexed: 10/05/2024]
Abstract
Several bird species are known to utilise marine debris among their nest materials in different parts of the world. This study examines the prevalence of debris in cormorant nests in the Gulf of Finland, focusing mainly on plastic debris. 200 nests were sampled on four different nesting islets, and plastic debris in the nest was counted and classified according to their type, colour, origin and polymer type. In total, 58 % of the nests contained debris (95 % plastics), but the prevalence of debris in the nests varied between the colonies. Core nests contained more debris than periphery nests. The relative number of threadlike plastics in the nests was higher than that in the surrounding environment, indicating active selection by cormorants. Based on the results, nest surveys could be a useful tool in evaluating the effectiveness of certain reduction measures aiming to tackle marine plastic pollution in the Baltic Sea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anni Jylhä-Vuorio
- Finnish Environment Institute (Syke), Latokartanonkaari 11, 00790 Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Pinja Näkki
- Finnish Environment Institute (Syke), Latokartanonkaari 11, 00790 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Outi Setälä
- Finnish Environment Institute (Syke), Latokartanonkaari 11, 00790 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Aleksi Lehikoinen
- Finnish Museum of Natural History (LUOMUS), University of Helsinki, Pohjoinen Rautatiekatu 13, 00100 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Maiju Lehtiniemi
- Finnish Environment Institute (Syke), Latokartanonkaari 11, 00790 Helsinki, Finland
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6
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Monteiro R, Pardal EC, Ândrade M, Mendes DS, Moraes CG, Silva JRSD, Fernandes MEB. Plastic nests: The first record of the Yellow-rumped Cacique (Cacicus cela) and the Great Kiskadee (Pitangus sulphuratus) building nests with discarded fishing material on the Amazon Coast. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 207:116805. [PMID: 39128230 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116805] [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: 06/04/2024] [Revised: 07/31/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024]
Abstract
The Amazonian coastal ecosystems face a significant threat from plastic contamination, posing a major risk to their biodiversity. Here, we provide the first evidence of using plastics in nest building by Yellow-cacique Cacique (Cacicus cela) and Greater Kiskadee (Pitangus sulphuratus). During 2023 and 2024, 15 nests built with ropes and fishing lines were recorded in the Brazilian Amazon Coast, a colony of 12 nests in the State of Amapá and one nest in Pará for C. cela, and one nest for P. sulphuratus was observed in Maranhão during the fieldwork, covering all Brazilian Amazon Coast. These nests were observed on the edge of mangroves, built with solid waste from fishing activities, pointing out how environmental pollution can be incorporated into wildlife this issue. Our records emphasize the effect of plastic pollution on two passerine species associated with mangrove forests and the need for conservation measures and further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raqueline Monteiro
- Observatório do Lixo Antropogênico Marinho (OLAMAR), AP, PA, MA, Brazil; Laboratório de Sensoriamento Remoto e Análises Espaciais Aplicado a Ecossistemas Aquáticos (LASA), Instituto de Pesquisas Científicas e Tecnológicas do Estado do Amapá (IEPA), Macapá, AP, Brazil.
| | - Emarielle Coelho Pardal
- Observatório do Lixo Antropogênico Marinho (OLAMAR), AP, PA, MA, Brazil; Laboratório de Sensoriamento Remoto e Análises Espaciais Aplicado a Ecossistemas Aquáticos (LASA), Instituto de Pesquisas Científicas e Tecnológicas do Estado do Amapá (IEPA), Macapá, AP, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Ândrade
- Observatório do Lixo Antropogênico Marinho (OLAMAR), AP, PA, MA, Brazil; Grupo de Biodiversidade e Bioprodutos da Amazônia Maranhense, Universidade Federal do Maranhão (UFMA), Pinheiro, MA, Brazil
| | - Dayene Santiago Mendes
- Observatório do Lixo Antropogênico Marinho (OLAMAR), AP, PA, MA, Brazil; Laboratório de Ecologia de Manguezal (LAMA), Universidade Federal do Pará (UFPA), Câmpus de Bragança, PA, Brazil
| | - Carine Gomes Moraes
- Observatório do Lixo Antropogênico Marinho (OLAMAR), AP, PA, MA, Brazil; Grupo de Biodiversidade e Bioprodutos da Amazônia Maranhense, Universidade Federal do Maranhão (UFMA), Pinheiro, MA, Brazil
| | - José Raimundo Salustiano Da Silva
- Observatório do Lixo Antropogênico Marinho (OLAMAR), AP, PA, MA, Brazil; Laboratório de Ecologia de Manguezal (LAMA), Universidade Federal do Pará (UFPA), Câmpus de Bragança, PA, Brazil
| | - Marcus Emanuel Barroncas Fernandes
- Observatório do Lixo Antropogênico Marinho (OLAMAR), AP, PA, MA, Brazil; Laboratório de Ecologia de Manguezal (LAMA), Universidade Federal do Pará (UFPA), Câmpus de Bragança, PA, Brazil
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7
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Zhao C, Zheng M, Ge Y. The quantifying, mapping, and risk analysis of human-related stressors in the high seas. Sci Prog 2024; 107:368504241288373. [PMID: 39360494 DOI: 10.1177/00368504241288373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/04/2024]
Abstract
Objectives: Marine biodiversity and ecosystem services in the high seas are threatened by numerous stress factors caused by human activities, including global shipping, high-sea fishing, marine plastic pollution, and anthropogenic climate change. Socioeconomic factors are one of the criteria for the establishment of area-based management tools in the high seas for marine biodiversity conservation beyond national jurisdiction. The aim of the work is to propose a spatiotemporal approach to identify risks from marine human activities and recommendations for high seas governance. Methods: Data related to human activities from 2014 to 2022 were used to calculate the distribution and changes of human-related stressors, and the risk to marine biodiversity in the high seas caused by human activities. Results: The North Atlantic, Philippine Sea, Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and East Central Atlantic show high and increasing intensities of human-related stressors, and are therefore particularly at need for the protection and conservation of marine biodiversity. Risks from human activities vary within the marine areas that are prioritized for biodiversity protection. The study recommends that the designation of high seas protected areas should take into account the types of risks to which the different marine areas are exposed, and that the high seas protected areas should be established gradually. At the same time, appropriate management measures should be formulated according to the intensity of human activities in the different marine areas. Conclusions: Quantifying and classifying the risk from human-related stressors could help identify solution for the protection and conservation and facilitate the marine spatial planning, establishment area based management tools, including marine protected areas in the high seas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Zhao
- Faculty of Geographical Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
- China Institute for Marine Affairs, Ministry of Natural Resources, Beijing, China
| | - Miaozhuang Zheng
- China Institute for Marine Affairs, Ministry of Natural Resources, Beijing, China
| | - Yuejing Ge
- Faculty of Geographical Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
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8
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Razzell Hollis J, Lavers JL, Bond AL. The use of vibrational spectroscopy and supervised machine learning for chemical identification of plastics ingested by seabirds. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 476:134996. [PMID: 38972201 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134996] [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: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
Plastic pollution is now ubiquitous in the environment and represents a growing threat to wildlife, who can mistake plastic for food and ingest it. Tackling this problem requires reliable, consistent methods for monitoring plastic pollution ingested by seabirds and other marine fauna, including methods for identifying different types of plastic. This study presents a robust method for the rapid, reliable chemical characterisation of ingested plastics in the 1-50 mm size range using infrared and Raman spectroscopy. We analysed 246 objects ingested by Flesh-footed Shearwaters (Ardenna carneipes) from Lord Howe Island, Australia, and compared the data yielded by each technique: 92 % of ingested objects visually identified as plastic were confirmed by spectroscopy, 98 % of those were low density polymers such as polyethylene, polypropylene, or their copolymers. Ingested plastics exhibit significant spectral evidence of biological contamination compared to other reports, which hinders identification by conventional library searching. Machine learning can be used to identify ingested plastics by their vibrational spectra with up to 93 % accuracy. Overall, we find that infrared is the more effective technique for identifying ingested plastics in this size range, and that appropriately trained machine learning models can be superior to conventional library searching methods for identifying plastics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jennifer L Lavers
- Bird Group, Natural History Museum, Tring, UK; Gulbali Institute, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales 2678, Australia
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9
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Baak JE, Hanifen KE, Maddox ML, Mallory ML, Elliott KH, Keegan S, Provencher JF. Decades of monitoring plastic pollution in seabirds in Canada: Spatial, temporal, and methodological insights. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 206:116800. [PMID: 39096865 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116800] [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: 01/21/2024] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
Plastic ingestion by seabirds is an increasing issue worldwide, yet species can vary in ingestion based on ecological and morphological differences. This provokes the ecological question of which species are better suited to monitor plastic ingestion across regions and time. In Canada, we examined plastic ingestion in sympatric northern fulmars (Fulmarus glacialis), black-legged kittiwakes (Rissa tridactyla), thick-billed murres (Uria lomvia), and black guillemots (Cepphus grylle). Here, we present new data and compare to historical work to inform plastic pollution monitoring in Canada. In 2021, 51 % of fulmars, 7 % of kittiwakes and 7 % of murres contained plastic, whereas guillemots had no pieces >1 mm. Regardless of the methods used to collect and process samples, fulmars continue to have low levels of ingestion compared to the European Arctic, but high levels compared to other species in the Canadian Arctic, emphasizing their continued utility as a monitoring tool for plastic pollution in Canada.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia E Baak
- Department of Natural Resource Sciences, McGill University, Sainte Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec H9X 3V9, Canada; Environment and Climate Change Canada, Iqaluit, Nunavut X0A 3H0, Canada.
| | - Kristine E Hanifen
- Department of Biology, Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia B4P 2R6, Canada
| | - Mark L Maddox
- Department of Biology, Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia B4P 2R6, Canada
| | - Mark L Mallory
- Department of Biology, Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia B4P 2R6, Canada
| | - Kyle H Elliott
- Department of Natural Resource Sciences, McGill University, Sainte Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec H9X 3V9, Canada
| | - Shane Keegan
- Department of Biology, Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia B4P 2R6, Canada
| | - Jennifer F Provencher
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, National Wildlife Research Centre, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0H3, Canada
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10
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Murano C, Balestrieri R, Minichino A, Campioni L, Casotti R. Macro-and micro-plastics detected in razorbill Alca torda in the western Mediterranean Sea. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 206:116814. [PMID: 39116756 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116814] [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: 06/21/2024] [Revised: 08/02/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
The Mediterranean Sea is a hotspot for plastic pollution and, consequently, an area at high risk of plastic exposure for oceanic seabirds. In this work we retrieved plastic items from different tissues/organs of razorbills Alca torda. This is a piscivorous species of the Alcidae family usually thriving along the North Atlantic coasts. In the winter 2022-2023, some individuals were observed in the Mediterranean area up to the Italian tyrrhenian coasts. Among the five carcasses examined, three contained plastic debris, mainly in the digestive system, in the form of fragments and fibers. The latter were also found in the pectoral muscles and, in one individual, in the liver. Polyethylene was the most represented polymer (55.2 %), followed by polypropylene (24.1 %) and cellulose (10.4 %). Previous reports hypothesized that North Atlantic razorbills are less exposed to plastic pollution because of their feeding strategy. Our results contradict this hypothesis, highlighting their susceptibility to plastic contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carola Murano
- Department of Integrative Marine Ecology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Naples, Italy; NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, Piazza Marina 61, 90133 Palermo, Italy
| | - Rosario Balestrieri
- Department of Integrative Marine Ecology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Calabria Marine Centre, Amendolara, Italy.
| | - Adriano Minichino
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, Federico II University of Naples, 80134 Naples, Italy
| | - Letizia Campioni
- MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre/ARNET - Aquatic Research Network, Ispa - Instituto Universitário de Ciências Psicológicas, Sociais e da Vida, Lisboa 1149-041, Portugal
| | - Raffaella Casotti
- Department of Integrative Marine Ecology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Naples, Italy.
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11
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Yakich DM, Wooley AK, Heath LB, Poulakis GR. Effects of marine debris and human interactions on the smalltooth sawfish (Pristis pectinata). MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 206:116606. [PMID: 39053260 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116606] [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: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Although conservation efforts have reduced threats, the endangered smalltooth sawfish, Pristis pectinata, is still at risk from anthropogenic effects such as entanglement in recreational and commercial fishing gear. From 2017 to 2021, data from field research and the public in Florida documented 176 individuals that were entangled, injured, or killed by debris or human interactions. While entanglements in fishing gear (e.g., trawls, fishing tackle) remain the most frequent threat, interactions with household items have increased. Since 2017, 30 sawfish were reported with encircling debris (e.g., monofilament loops, rubber bands, ball bungee cords) around anterior parts of their bodies. Ball bungee cords have emerged as a problem, likely related to the popularity of their use in securing boat lift canopy covers. Collectively, encircling items have interfered with eye, spiracle, gill, and mouth function. Continued outreach is a priority to address these pollutants, their sources (e.g., manufacturers), and their effects on recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dylan M Yakich
- Charlotte Harbor Field Laboratory, Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, 585 Prineville Street, Port Charlotte, FL 33954, United States.
| | - Andrew K Wooley
- Charlotte Harbor Field Laboratory, Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, 585 Prineville Street, Port Charlotte, FL 33954, United States.
| | - Lukas B Heath
- Charlotte Harbor Field Laboratory, Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, 585 Prineville Street, Port Charlotte, FL 33954, United States.
| | - Gregg R Poulakis
- Charlotte Harbor Field Laboratory, Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, 585 Prineville Street, Port Charlotte, FL 33954, United States.
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12
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Kibria G. Contamination of coastal and marine bird species with plastics: Global analysis and synthesis. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 206:116687. [PMID: 39024909 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116687] [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: 06/10/2024] [Revised: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
This review article provides an account of coastal and marine bird species contaminated with plastics in light of ingestion, taxonomy, feeding clusters, types, shapes, colours and lethal and sublethal effects. Bird species were found contaminated with plastics in 39 locations/countries across the seven continents. Global analysis shows that low, medium and high plastic ingestion occurred in bird species across the globe. Fulmars, shearwaters, petrels, albatrosses, gulls, and kittiwakes (all marine/seabirds) were found contaminated with plastics in several locations in the world. Bird species belonging to the Procellariidae, Laridae, Diomedeidae (by taxonomy), piscivorous, molluscivorous, and cancrivorous (by feeding habits) were most contaminated with plastics. Microplastic, mesoplastic and macroplastic (by sizes), PP, PE, PS, PET, PAN and PVC (by types), fragments, pellets, fibres, foams, sheets, threads, fishing lines and films (by shapes) and white, blue, green, black, clear, red and yellow (by colours) were the most common plastics ingested by birds. Several bird species contaminated with plastics fall within the critically endangered, endangered and vulnerable categories. The ingestion of plastics can cause direct harm to birds resulting in death. In addition, plastic-derived toxic chemical additives and plastic-adsorbed toxic chemicals would be an additional stressor causing both lethal and sublethal effects that can cause greater harm to the health of birds. Several measures are suggested to reduce plastic pollution in the environment to safeguard birds and the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Golam Kibria
- School of Science, RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia; Global Artificial Mussel Pollution Watch Program, Australia.
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13
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Wayman C, Fernández-Piñas F, Fernández-Valeriano R, García-Baquero GA, López-Márquez I, González-González F, Rosal R, González-Pleiter M. The potential use of birds as bioindicators of suspended atmospheric microplastics and artificial fibers. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 282:116744. [PMID: 39018735 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116744] [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: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 07/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) and artificial fibers (AFs) have been detected suspended tens of meters above ground level in the atmosphere, yet empirical data on them remain scarce. This study aimed to investigate the presence of MPs and AFs in the digestive and respiratory systems of two abundant bird species, the Common House Martin (Delichon urbicum) and the Common Swift (Apus apus), within the Community of Madrid, Spain. Given that these birds spend the majority of their lives airborne, engaging in activities such as mating and sleeping during flight, the research sought to assess the potential of using these bird species as bioindicators for suspended atmospheric MPs and AFs. Samples were obtained from necropsies of birds (N = 24) collected primarily between spring and summer from 2021 to 2023. Only individuals that died within the initial 24-hour period and had not been fed were selected for examination to avoid contamination. MPs and AFS were identified by micro-FTIR, characterized and quantified. Results revealed that 75 % of the sampled birds exhibited at least one MPs in their respiratory and/or digestive system. All identified MPs were fibers, with polyester (PES) being the most predominant (48 %), followed by acrylic fibers (ACR; 28 %), and polyethylene (PE; 18 %). The average concentrations in the respiratory system were 1.12 ± 0.45 MPs/specimen and 2.78 ± 1.04 AFs/specimen for Common Swift and 0.75 ± 0.30 MPs/specimen and 0.75 ± 0.36 AFs/specimen for House Martin. In the digestive system, these were 1.92 ± 0.72 MPs/specimen and 3.42 ± 0.69 AFs/specimen for Common Swift, and 1.34 ± 0.50 MPs/specimen and 1.39 ± 0.47 AFs/specimen for House Martin. Birds collected areas with high population density located in the direction of the prevailing winds showed a concentration of MPs significantly higher in the digestive system. Taken together, these findings confirmed the potential use of these birds as bioindicators for monitoring of suspended atmospheric MPs and AFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloe Wayman
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Universidad de Alcalá, Madrid, Alcalá de Henares E-28871, Spain
| | - Francisca Fernández-Piñas
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid E-28049, Spain; Centro de Investigación en Biodiversidad y Cambio Global (CIBC-UAM), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, C Darwin 2, Madrid 28049, Spain
| | - Rocío Fernández-Valeriano
- Wildlife Hospital, Group of Rehabilitation of the Autochthonous Fauna and Their Habitat (GREFA), Monte del Pilar, Majadahonda, Madrid 28220, Spain
| | - Gonzalo Anibarro García-Baquero
- Wildlife Hospital, Group of Rehabilitation of the Autochthonous Fauna and Their Habitat (GREFA), Monte del Pilar, Majadahonda, Madrid 28220, Spain
| | - Irene López-Márquez
- Wildlife Hospital, Group of Rehabilitation of the Autochthonous Fauna and Their Habitat (GREFA), Monte del Pilar, Majadahonda, Madrid 28220, Spain
| | - Fernando González-González
- Wildlife Hospital, Group of Rehabilitation of the Autochthonous Fauna and Their Habitat (GREFA), Monte del Pilar, Majadahonda, Madrid 28220, Spain; Departmental Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University Complutense of Madrid, Madrid 28020, Spain
| | - Roberto Rosal
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Universidad de Alcalá, Madrid, Alcalá de Henares E-28871, Spain
| | - Miguel González-Pleiter
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid E-28049, Spain; Centro de Investigación en Biodiversidad y Cambio Global (CIBC-UAM), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, C Darwin 2, Madrid 28049, Spain.
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14
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Espinoza MJ, Laviada I, Taberner Cerezo A, Luna Á, Gil-Delgado JA, Bernat-Ponce E. Do birds select the plastics debris used for nest construction? A case study in a Mediterranean agricultural landscape. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 255:119117. [PMID: 38729409 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.119117] [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: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
Plastic pollution is becoming a global problem due to its ubiquitous occurrence and the impacts detected for many species. However, the research about plastics in nests of terrestrial bird species has remained relatively overlooked in comparison to those devoted to marine ecosystems. Here we study the occurrence and patterns of use of anthropogenic material in nests of two passerine birds, the Eurasian magpie (Pica pica) and the European serin (Serinus serinus), breeding in an orange tree cultivation in Mediterranean Spain. Our results show that both species use extensively plastic debris as nest material; almost 71% of the European serin nests and 96% of nests of Eurasian magpies contained plastic debris. Furthermore, by analyzing the plastic debris availability in the agricultural landscape surveyed we confirmed a selection pattern in the two species. Thus, both species preferably select plastic filaments over other plastic debris. The Eurasian magpie does not select plastic based on size or color but the European serin avoid black plastics prefer smaller fragments in comparison to the average size available. Moreover, we suggest the apparent similarity of plastic filaments with the natural materials typically used by these species, as well as how they use the plastic in their nests could influence their selection behavior. More studies focused on terrestrial birds inhabiting human modified habitats could offer a deeper approach to how plastic debris interacts with wildlife in different ways.
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Affiliation(s)
- María José Espinoza
- Department of Microbiology and Ecology, Terrestrial Vertebrates Ecology, Cavanilles Institute of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, University of Valencia, c/ Catedrático José Beltrán, 2, 46980, Paterna, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Iván Laviada
- Department of Microbiology and Ecology, Terrestrial Vertebrates Ecology, Cavanilles Institute of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, University of Valencia, c/ Catedrático José Beltrán, 2, 46980, Paterna, Valencia, Spain
| | - Aina Taberner Cerezo
- Department of Microbiology and Ecology, Terrestrial Vertebrates Ecology, Cavanilles Institute of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, University of Valencia, c/ Catedrático José Beltrán, 2, 46980, Paterna, Valencia, Spain
| | - Álvaro Luna
- Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - José A Gil-Delgado
- Department of Microbiology and Ecology, Terrestrial Vertebrates Ecology, Cavanilles Institute of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, University of Valencia, c/ Catedrático José Beltrán, 2, 46980, Paterna, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Edgar Bernat-Ponce
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Europea de Valencia, Paseo de la Alameda, 7, 46010, Valencia, Spain
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15
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Belli IM, Cavali M, Garbossa LHP, Franco D, Bayard R, de Castilhos Junior AB. A review of plastic debris in the South American Atlantic Ocean coast - Distribution, characteristics, policies and legal aspects. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 938:173197. [PMID: 38772490 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
The presence of plastics in the oceans has already become a pervasive phenomenon. Marine pollution by plastics surpasses the status of an emerging threat to become a well-established environmental problem, boosting research on this topic. However, despite many studies on the main seas and oceans, it is necessary to compile information on the South American Atlantic Ocean Coast to identify the lack of research and expand knowledge on marine plastic pollution in this region. Accordingly, this paper conducted an in-depth review of monitoring methods, sampling, and identification of macroplastics and microplastics (MPs) in water, sediments, and biota, including information on legal requirements from different countries as well as non-governmental initiatives. Brazil was the country with the highest number of published papers, followed by Argentina. MPs accounted for 75 % of the papers selected, with blue microfibers being the most common morphology, whereas PE and PP were the most abundant polymers. Also, a lack of standardization in the methodologies used was identified; however, the sites with the highest concentrations of MPs were the Bahía Blanca Estuary (Argentina), Guanabara Bay (Brazil), and Todos os Santos Bay (Brazil), regardless of the method applied. Regarding legislation, Uruguay and Argentina have the most advanced policies in the region against marine plastic pollution due to their emphasis on the life cycle and the national ban on certain single-use plastics. Therefore, considering its content, this expert review can be useful to assist researchers dealing with plastic pollution along the South American Atlantic Ocean Coast.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor Marcon Belli
- Department of Sanitary and Environmental Engineering, Federal University of Santa Catarina, 88040-900 Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil.
| | - Matheus Cavali
- Department of Sanitary and Environmental Engineering, Federal University of Santa Catarina, 88040-900 Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | | | - Davide Franco
- Department of Sanitary and Environmental Engineering, Federal University of Santa Catarina, 88040-900 Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Rémy Bayard
- INSA Lyon, DEEP, UR7429, 69621 Villeurbanne, France
| | - Armando Borges de Castilhos Junior
- Department of Sanitary and Environmental Engineering, Federal University of Santa Catarina, 88040-900 Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
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16
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Yalameha B, Rezabakhsh A, Rahbarghazi R, Khaki-Khatibi F, Nourazarian A. Plastic particle impacts on the cardiovascular system and angiogenesis potential. Mol Cell Biochem 2024:10.1007/s11010-024-05081-2. [PMID: 39126457 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-024-05081-2] [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: 05/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
The extensive application of plastics in different sectors such as packaging, building, textiles, consumer products, and several industries has increased in recent years. Emerging data have confirmed that plastic wastes and segregates are problematic issues in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. The decomposition of plastic particles (PPs) leads to the release of microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) into the surrounding environment and entry of these particles will be problematic in unicellular and multicellular creatures. It was suggested that PPs can easily cross all biological barriers and reach different organs, especially the cardiovascular system, with the potential to modulate several molecular pathways. It is postulated that the direct interaction of PPs with cellular and subcellular components induces genotoxicity and cytotoxicity within the cardiovascular system. Meanwhile, being inert carriers, PPs can intensify the toxicity of other contaminants inside the cardiovascular system. Here, in this review article, several underlying mechanisms related to PP toxicity in the cardiovascular system were discussed in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Banafsheh Yalameha
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, 51666-14733, Iran
| | - Aysa Rezabakhsh
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Reza Rahbarghazi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
- Department of Applied Cell Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, 51666-14733, Iran.
| | - Fatemeh Khaki-Khatibi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, 51666-14733, Iran.
| | - Alireza Nourazarian
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Khoy University of Medical Sciences, Khoy, Iran
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17
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Matiddi M, Valente T, Camedda A, Centelleghe C, Cocumelli C, Dara S, de Lucia GA, Di Renzo L, Ferri N, Gioacchini G, Hochscheid S, Lucifora G, Maffucci F, Monteverde V, Pelamatti T, Petrella A, Pietroluongo G, Roncari C, Terracciano G, Silvestri C. Are we even close? Five years marine litter ingestion monitoring in loggerhead turtles along Italian coast reveals how far we are from the Good Environmental Status. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 205:116647. [PMID: 38941806 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024]
Abstract
The loggerhead sea turtle Caretta caretta has been chosen as bioindicator to monitor the amount of litter ingested by marine animals within the European Marine Strategy Framework Directive and the Barcelona Regional Sea Convention. European Member States and Contracting Parties are committed to achieve the Good Environmental Status (GES), which is reached when the quantity of ingested litter does not adversely affect the health of the species concerned. Although the monitoring strategy has been outlined for more than a decade, to date no threshold values have been adopted to verify GES achievement. After five years of extensive monitoring along the Italian coasts, this study evaluates the suitability of five different GES scenarios and proposes a new threshold value (i.e., "there should be less than 33% of sea turtles having more than 0.05 g of ingested plastic in the GI") for its implementation in the European seas and the Mediterranean basin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Matiddi
- ISPRA, Italian National Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, CN-LAB, Nekton Lab., Via del Fosso di Fiorano 64, 00143 Roma, RM, Italy
| | - Tommaso Valente
- ISPRA, Italian National Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, CN-LAB, Nekton Lab., Via del Fosso di Fiorano 64, 00143 Roma, RM, Italy; 'La Sapienza' University of Rome, Department of Environmental Biology, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, RM, Italy.
| | - Andrea Camedda
- IAS-CNR, Institute of Anthropic Impact and Sustainability in Marine Environment, National Research Council Oristano Section, Località Sa Mardini, 09170 Torregrande, OR, Italy
| | - Cinzia Centelleghe
- Dipartimento di Biomedicina Comparata e Alimentazione, Università degli Studi di Padova, V.le dell'Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, PD, Italy.; CONISMA, Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze del Mare, P.le Flaminio 9, 00196 Roma, RM, Italy
| | - Cristiano Cocumelli
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana "M. Aleandri", Via Appia Nuova 1411, 00178 Roma, RM, Italy
| | - Salvatore Dara
- Centro Referenza Nazionale Tartarughe Marine (C.Re.Ta.M), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia "A. Mirri", Via Gino Marinuzzi 3, 90129 Palermo, PA, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Andrea de Lucia
- IAS-CNR, Institute of Anthropic Impact and Sustainability in Marine Environment, National Research Council Oristano Section, Località Sa Mardini, 09170 Torregrande, OR, Italy
| | - Ludovica Di Renzo
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise "G. Caporale", Laboratorio Ecosistemi Acquatici e Terrestri, Via Campo Boario, 64100 Teramo, TE, Italy; Centro Studi Cetacei Onlus, Via Mario Mantini 15, 65125 Pescara, PE, Italy
| | - Nicola Ferri
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise "G. Caporale", Laboratorio Ecosistemi Acquatici e Terrestri, Via Campo Boario, 64100 Teramo, TE, Italy
| | - Giorgia Gioacchini
- Marche Polytechnic University, Department of Life and Environmental Sciences (DiSVA), Via Brecce Bianche snc, 60131 Ancona, AN, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Lucifora
- Istituto Zooprofilattico del Mezzogiorno, sezione di Vibo Valentia, Corso Umberto I 362, 89852 Mileto, VV, Italy
| | - Fulvio Maffucci
- Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121 Napoli, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Monteverde
- Centro Referenza Nazionale Tartarughe Marine (C.Re.Ta.M), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia "A. Mirri", Via Gino Marinuzzi 3, 90129 Palermo, PA, Italy
| | - Tania Pelamatti
- ISPRA, Italian National Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, CN-LAB, Nekton Lab., Via del Fosso di Fiorano 64, 00143 Roma, RM, Italy
| | - Antonio Petrella
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Puglia e della Basilicata, Via Manfredonia 20, Foggia, FO, Italy
| | - Guido Pietroluongo
- Dipartimento di Biomedicina Comparata e Alimentazione, Università degli Studi di Padova, V.le dell'Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, PD, Italy.; CONISMA, Consorzio Nazionale Interuniversitario per le Scienze del Mare, P.le Flaminio 9, 00196 Roma, RM, Italy
| | - Chiara Roncari
- Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121 Napoli, Italy
| | - Giuliana Terracciano
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana "M. Aleandri", Via Appia Nuova 1411, 00178 Roma, RM, Italy
| | - Cecilia Silvestri
- ISPRA, Italian National Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, CN-LAB, Nekton Lab., Via del Fosso di Fiorano 64, 00143 Roma, RM, Italy
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18
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Mills WF, Norris C, Black S, Phillips RA, Hammer S, Olsen B, Danielsen J. Plastic ingestion and trace element contamination of Manx shearwaters Puffinus puffinus on the Faroe Islands. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 204:116537. [PMID: 38838391 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116537] [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: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Procellariiform seabirds can accumulate high levels of plastic in their gastrointestinal tracts, which can cause physical damage and potentially provides a contamination route for trace elements. We examined plastic ingestion and trace element contamination of fledgling Manx shearwaters Puffinus puffinus that were harvested for human consumption in 2003 and 2018 on Skúvoy, Faroe Islands (North Atlantic Ocean). Overall, 88% of fledglings contained plastic in their gastrointestinal tracts, with a mean (± SD) of 7.2 ± 6.6 items weighing 0.007 ± 0.016 g. Though the incidence was similar, fledglings ingested significantly more plastic in 2018 compared to 2003. Hepatic trace element concentrations were unrelated to plastic ingestion. Hepatic carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) stable isotope values were significantly lower in birds sampled in 2018 versus 2003, potentially reflecting further offshore feeding at lower trophic levels. Future research is needed to understand the extent of plastic ingestion by Faroe Islands seabirds.
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Affiliation(s)
- William F Mills
- Department of Geography and Environmental Science, University of Reading, Reading, UK.
| | | | - Stuart Black
- Department of Geography and Environmental Science, University of Reading, Reading, UK
| | - Richard A Phillips
- British Antarctic Survey, Natural Environment Research Council, Cambridge CB3 0ET, UK
| | - Sjúrður Hammer
- Faroese Environment Agency, Traðagøta 38, Argir FO-165, Faroe Islands
| | - Bergur Olsen
- Faroe Marine Research Institute, Nóatún 1, 100 Tórshavn, Faroe Islands
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19
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Pollet IL, Acmc S, Kelly BG, Baak JE, Hanifen KE, Maddox ML, Provencher JF, Mallory ML. The relationship between plastic ingestion and trace element concentrations in Arctic seabirds. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 203:116509. [PMID: 38788276 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116509] [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: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Seabirds ingest contaminants linked to their prey's tissues, but also adsorbed to ingested plastic debris. To explore relationships between ingested plastics and trace elements concentrations, we analyzed 25 essential non-essential trace elements in liver tissue in relation to plastic content in the gastrointestinal tract in adults of four species of Arctic seabirds with different propensity to ingest plastic. Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) provided a clear separation between species based on element concentrations, but not among individuals with and without plastics. Molybdenum, copper, vanadium, and zinc were strong drivers of the LDA, separating northern fulmars (Fulmarus glacialis) from other species (60.4 % of explained between-group variance). Selenium, vanadium, zinc, and mercury were drivers separating black-legged kittiwakes (Rissa tridactyla) from the other species (19.3 % of explained between-group variance). This study suggests that ingestion of plastic particles has little influence on the burden of essential and non-essential trace elements in Arctic seabird species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid L Pollet
- Acadia University, Biology Department, Wolfville, NS, B4P 2R6, Canada.
| | - Sululiit Acmc
- Sululiit ACMC - Environment and Climate Change Canada, P.O. Box 1870, Iqaluit, Nunavut X0A 0H0, Canada
| | - Brendan G Kelly
- Sululiit ACMC - Environment and Climate Change Canada, P.O. Box 1870, Iqaluit, Nunavut X0A 0H0, Canada
| | - Julia E Baak
- Department of Natural Resource Sciences, McGill University, Sainte Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec, Canada; Sululiit ACMC - Environment and Climate Change Canada, P.O. Box 1870, Iqaluit, Nunavut X0A 0H0, Canada
| | | | - Mark L Maddox
- Acadia University, Biology Department, Wolfville, NS, B4P 2R6, Canada
| | - Jennifer F Provencher
- National Wildlife Research Centre, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Raven Road, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0H3, Canada
| | - Mark L Mallory
- Acadia University, Biology Department, Wolfville, NS, B4P 2R6, Canada
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20
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Perold V, Connan M, Suaria G, Weideman EA, Dilley BJ, Ryan PG. Regurgitated skua pellets containing the remains of South Atlantic seabirds can be used as biomonitors of small buoyant plastics at sea. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 203:116400. [PMID: 38692002 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116400] [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: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Using seabirds as bioindicators of marine plastic pollution requires an understanding of how the plastic retained in each species compares with that found in their environment. We show that brown skua Catharacta antarctica regurgitated pellets can be used to characterise plastics in four seabird taxa breeding in the central South Atlantic, even though skua pellets might underrepresent the smallest plastic items in their prey. Fregetta storm petrels ingested more thread-like plastics and white-faced storm petrels Pelagodroma marina more industrial pellets than broad-billed prions Pachyptila vittata and great shearwaters Ardenna gravis. Ingested plastic composition (type, colour and polymer) was similar to floating plastics in the region sampled with a 200 μm net, but storm petrels were better indicators of the size of plastics than prions and shearwaters. Given this information, plastics in skua pellets containing the remains of seabirds can be used to track long-term changes in floating marine plastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vonica Perold
- FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DST-NRF Centre of Excellence, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa.
| | - Maëlle Connan
- Department of Zoology, Marine Apex Predator Research Unit (MAPRU), Institute for Coastal and Marine Research, Nelson Mandela University, Gqeberha, South Africa
| | - Giuseppe Suaria
- CNR-ISMAR (Institute of Marine Sciences - National Research Council), Lerici 19032, La Spezia, Italy
| | - Eleanor A Weideman
- FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DST-NRF Centre of Excellence, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa
| | - Ben J Dilley
- FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DST-NRF Centre of Excellence, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa
| | - Peter G Ryan
- FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DST-NRF Centre of Excellence, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa
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21
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Tremolada P, Saliu F, Winkler A, Carniti CP, Castelli M, Lasagni M, Andò S, Leandri-Breton DJ, Gatt MC, Obiol JF, Parolini M, Nakajima C, Whelan S, Shoji A, Hatch SA, Elliott KH, Cecere JG, Rubolini D. Indigo-dyed cellulose fibers and synthetic polymers in surface-feeding seabird chick regurgitates from the Gulf of Alaska. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 203:116401. [PMID: 38713925 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116401] [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: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024]
Abstract
We provide evidence of anthropogenic materials ingestion in seabirds from a remote oceanic area, using regurgitates obtained from black-legged kittiwake (Rissa tridactyla) chicks from Middleton Island (Gulf of Alaska, USA). By means of GPS tracking of breeding adults, we identified foraging grounds where anthropogenic materials were most likely ingested. They were mainly located within the continental shelf of the Gulf of Alaska and near the Alaskan coastline. Anthropogenic cellulose fibers showed a high prevalence (85 % occurrence), whereas synthetic polymers (in the micro- and mesoplastics dimensional range) were less frequent (20 %). Most fibers (60 %) were blue and we confirmed the presence of indigo-dyed cellulosic fibers, characteristic of denim fabrics. In terms of mass, contamination levels were 0.077 μg g-1 wet weight and 0.009 μg g-1 wet weight for anthropogenic microfibers and synthetic polymers, respectively. These results represent the only recent report of contamination by anthropogenic fibers in seabirds from the Gulf of Alaska.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Tremolada
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Politiche Ambientali, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Celoria 26, I-20133, Milano, Italy.
| | - Francesco Saliu
- Dipartimento di Scienze dell'Ambiente e della Terra, Università degli Studi di Milano-Bicocca, p.zza della Scienza 1, I-20126 Milano, Italy
| | - Anna Winkler
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Politiche Ambientali, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Celoria 26, I-20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Cecilia P Carniti
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Politiche Ambientali, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Celoria 26, I-20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Melisa Castelli
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Politiche Ambientali, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Celoria 26, I-20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Marina Lasagni
- Dipartimento di Scienze dell'Ambiente e della Terra, Università degli Studi di Milano-Bicocca, p.zza della Scienza 1, I-20126 Milano, Italy
| | - Sergio Andò
- Dipartimento di Scienze dell'Ambiente e della Terra, Università degli Studi di Milano-Bicocca, p.zza della Scienza 1, I-20126 Milano, Italy
| | - Don-Jean Leandri-Breton
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Politiche Ambientali, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Celoria 26, I-20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Marie Claire Gatt
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Politiche Ambientali, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Celoria 26, I-20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Joan Ferrer Obiol
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Politiche Ambientali, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Celoria 26, I-20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Marco Parolini
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Politiche Ambientali, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Celoria 26, I-20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Chinatsu Nakajima
- Department of Life and Environmental Science, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Shannon Whelan
- Institute for Seabird Research and Conservation, Anchorage, AK, USA
| | - Akiko Shoji
- Department of Life and Environmental Science, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Scott A Hatch
- Institute for Seabird Research and Conservation, Anchorage, AK, USA
| | - Kyle H Elliott
- Department of Natural Resource Sciences, McGill University, Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Diego Rubolini
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Politiche Ambientali, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Celoria 26, I-20133, Milano, Italy
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22
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Ebbesen LG, Strange MV, Gunaalan K, Paulsen ML, Herrera A, Nielsen TG, Shashoua Y, Lindegren M, Almeda R. Do weathered microplastics impact the planktonic community? A mesocosm approach in the Baltic Sea. WATER RESEARCH 2024; 255:121500. [PMID: 38554636 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.121500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are ubiquitous pollutants of increasing concern in aquatic systems. However, little is still known about the impacts of weathered MPs on plankton at the community level after long-term exposure. In this study, we investigated the effects of weathered MPs on the structure and dynamics of a Baltic Sea planktonic community during ca. 5 weeks of exposure using a mesocosm approach (2 m3) mimicking natural conditions. MPs were obtained from micronized commercial materials of polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene, polystyrene, and polyamide (nylon) previously weathered by thermal ageing and sunlight exposure. The planktonic community was exposed to 2 μg L-1 and 2 mg L-1 of MPs corresponding to measured particle concentrations (10-120 μm) of 680 MPs L-1 and 680 MPs mL-1, respectively. The abundance and composition of all size classes and groups of plankton and chlorophyll concentrations were periodically analyzed throughout the experiment. The population dynamics of the studied groups showed some variations between treatments, with negative and positive effects of MPs exhibited depending on the group and exposure time. The abundance of heterotrophic bacteria, pico- and nanophytoplankton, cryptophytes, and ciliates was lower in the treatment with the higher MP concentration than in the control at the last weeks of the exposure. The chlorophyll concentration and the abundances of heterotrophic nanoflagellates, Astromoeba, dinoflagellate, diatom, and metazooplankton were not negatively affected by the exposure to MPs and, in some cases, some groups showed even higher abundances in the MP treatments. Despite these tendencies, statistical analyses indicate that in most cases there were no statistically significant differences between treatments over the exposure period, even at very high exposure concentrations. Our results show that weathered MPs of the studied conventional plastic materials have minimal or negligible impact on planktonic communities after long-term exposure to environmentally relevant concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linea Gry Ebbesen
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Denmark; National Institute of Aquatic Resources (DTU AQUA) Technical University of Denmark, Denmark
| | - Markus Varlund Strange
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Denmark; National Institute of Aquatic Resources (DTU AQUA) Technical University of Denmark, Denmark
| | - Kuddithamby Gunaalan
- National Institute of Aquatic Resources (DTU AQUA) Technical University of Denmark, Denmark
| | | | - Alicia Herrera
- EOMAR, ECOAQUA, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain
| | - Torkel Gissel Nielsen
- National Institute of Aquatic Resources (DTU AQUA) Technical University of Denmark, Denmark
| | - Yvonne Shashoua
- Environmental Archaeology and Materials Science, National Museum of Denmark, Denmark
| | - Martin Lindegren
- National Institute of Aquatic Resources (DTU AQUA) Technical University of Denmark, Denmark
| | - Rodrigo Almeda
- National Institute of Aquatic Resources (DTU AQUA) Technical University of Denmark, Denmark; EOMAR, ECOAQUA, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain.
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23
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Shahriar SIM, Islam N, Emon FJ, Ashaf-Ud-Doulah M, Khan S, Shahjahan M. Size dependent ingestion and effects of microplastics on survivability, hematology and intestinal histopathology of juvenile striped catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus). CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 356:141827. [PMID: 38583529 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141827] [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: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution is drastically increasing in aquatic ecosystems and it is assumed that different sizes of microplastics have diverse impacts on the physiology of aquatic organisms. Therefore, this study was intended to examine the ingestion and size specific effects of polyamide microplastic (PA-MP) on different physiological aspects such as growth, feed utilization, survivability, blood parameters and intestinal histopathology of juvenile striped catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus). In a 28-day exposure, the fish were fed with different sized PA-MP with a concentration of 500 mg per kg of feed in order to simulate highly microplastic contaminated environment. Three different treatments were set for this experiment i.e. T1, 25-50 μm (smaller microplastic); T2, 300 μm-2 mm (larger microplastic); T3, (mixed) including a control (C); each had three replicates. The highest ingestion was recorded in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) of fish exposed to smaller PA-MP treatments (T1 followed by T3). The results also showed compromised weight gain (WG; g), specific growth rate (SGR; %/day) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) with the exposure of PA-MP. Besides, survivability significantly reduced among treatments with the ingestion of smaller sized microplastic and found lowest in T1 (65.0 ± 5.0). In addition, the presence of PA-MP in feed negatively affected the concentration of hemoglobin and blood glucose. Similarly, smaller PA-MP caused most erythrocytic cellular and nuclear abnormalities; found highest in T1 that significantly different from other treatments (p < 0.05). Various histopathological deformities were observed in fish fed with PA-MP incorporated feed. The principal component analysis (PCA) showed that the toxicity and stress imparted by smaller PA-MP affected the survivability and blood parameters where larger PA-MP caused mild to severe abnormalities. Based on eigenvector values, the major abnormalities in intestine included occurrence of epithelium columnar degeneration (ECD: 0.402; PC1), hyperplasia of internal mucosa (HISM: 0.411; PC1), beheading of villi (BV: 0.323; PC1), atrophy of mucosa (AM: 0.322; PC1), tiny vacuoles in apical villi (TV: 0.438. PC2), crypt degeneration (CD: 0.375: PC2) and atrophy of goblet cell (AGC: 0.375; PC2). Therefore, it has been speculated that the size based PA-MP ingestion in the GIT interfered with the digestion and absorption as well as caused deformities that reflected negatively in survivability and hemato-biochemical parameters of juvenile striped catfish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheik Istiak Md Shahriar
- Laboratory of Fish Ecophysiology, Department of Fisheries Management, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, 2202, Bangladesh
| | - Naimul Islam
- Laboratory of Fish Ecophysiology, Department of Fisheries Management, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, 2202, Bangladesh
| | - Farhan Jamil Emon
- Laboratory of Fish Ecophysiology, Department of Fisheries Management, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, 2202, Bangladesh
| | | | - Saleha Khan
- Laboratory of Fish Ecophysiology, Department of Fisheries Management, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, 2202, Bangladesh
| | - Md Shahjahan
- Laboratory of Fish Ecophysiology, Department of Fisheries Management, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, 2202, Bangladesh.
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24
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Schutten K, Chandrashekar A, Dougherty L, Stevens B, Parmley EJ, Pearl D, Provencher JF, Jardine CM. How do life history and behaviour influence plastic ingestion risk in Canadian freshwater and terrestrial birds? ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 347:123777. [PMID: 38490523 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123777] [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: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
Plastic ingestion presents many potential avenues of risk for wildlife. Understanding which species and environments are most exposed to plastic pollution is a critical first step in investigating the One Health implications of plastic exposure. The objectives of this study were the following: 1) Utilize necropsy as part of ongoing passive disease surveillance to investigate ingested mesoplastics in birds collected in Ontario and Nunavut, and examine the relationships between bird-level factors and ingested debris; 2) evaluate microplastic ingestion compared to ingested mesodebris in raptors; and 3) identify potential sentinel species for plastic pollution monitoring in understudied freshwater and terrestrial (inland) environments. Between 2020 and 2022, 457 free-ranging birds across 52 species were received for postmortem examination. The upper gastrointestinal tracts were examined for mesoplastics and other debris (>2 mm) using standard techniques. Twenty-four individuals (5.3%) retained mesodebris and prevalence varied across species, with foraging technique, food type, and foraging substrate all associated with different metrics of debris ingestion. The odds of ingesting any type of anthropogenic mesodebris was nine times higher for non-raptorial species than for raptors. For a subset of raptors (N = 54) across 14 species, the terminal portion of the distal intestinal tract was digested with potassium hydroxide and microparticles were assessed using stereo-microscopy. Although only one of 54 (1.9%) raptors included in both analyses retained mesodebris in the upper gastrointestinal tract, 24 (44.4%) contained microparticles in the distal intestine. This study demonstrates that a variety of Canadian bird species ingest anthropogenic debris in inland systems, and suggests that life history and behaviour are associated with ingestion risk. For raptors, the mechanisms governing exposure and ingestion of mesoplastics appear to be different than those that govern microplastics. Herring gulls (Larus argentatus) and ring-billed gulls (Larus delawarensis) are proposed as ideal sentinels for plastic pollution monitoring in inland systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerry Schutten
- University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd E., Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada.
| | | | - Laura Dougherty
- Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd E., Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Brian Stevens
- Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd E., Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - E Jane Parmley
- University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd E., Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - David Pearl
- University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd E., Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Jennifer F Provencher
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, National Wildlife Research Centre, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0H3, Canada
| | - Claire M Jardine
- University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd E., Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
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25
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Mghili B, Hasni S, Ben-Haddad M, Rangel-Buitrago N, Keznine M, Lamine I, Hamiche FZ, Haddaoui H, Abelouah MR, Demiathi M, Oubahaouali B, Jellal N, Touaf M, Ahannach Y, Hassou N, Cherradi S, Aksissou M. Plastic pollution on Moroccan beaches: Toward baselines for large-scale assessment. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 201:116288. [PMID: 38531205 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116288] [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: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
In Africa, Morocco is the 10th largest producer of plastic. The severity of this plastic has attracted increasing amounts of attention in the Moroccan Atlantic and Mediterranean in recent years. However, at the national level, there is limited knowledge of plastic pollution. To obtain an exhaustive and comprehensive evaluation of plastic pollution levels in Morocco, large-scale monitoring is needed on all the coasts of the country. In this context, this paper examined the composition, abundance, distribution, source and quality of beaches on two Moroccan coasts using four beach quality indices along 29 beaches. During two seasons, a total of 72,105 items were counted. The mean litter abundance was 0.31 items/m2, and the Mediterranean beaches were more dense than the Atlantic beaches. In particular, litter density was greater in spring (0.35 items/m2) than in summer (0.29 items/m2). The data indicate considerable differences in the density of marine debris according to the seasonality, beach typology and presence of rivers. Hazardous litter items were collected along both Moroccan coasts, constituting 8.41 % of the total collected items, with a mean of 0.026 items/m2. The use of environmental indices allowed us to classify Moroccan beaches as "moderate cleanliness", "moderate abundance" of plastics, "moderately safe" presence of hazardous litter and "mediocre" environmental status. The findings of the present study indicate that the sources of litter on both Moroccan coasts come mainly from recreational activities and dumping. The waste management practices recommended for Moroccan beaches include reducing sources, mitigating mitigation measures and changing littering behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bilal Mghili
- LESCB, URL-CNRST N° 18, Faculty of Sciences, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Tetouan, Morocco.
| | - Soufiane Hasni
- Biology Department, Faculty of Sciences and Technology of Tangier, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Morocco
| | - Mohamed Ben-Haddad
- Laboratory of Aquatic Systems, Marine and Continental Environments (AQUAMAR), Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir 80000, Morocco
| | - Nelson Rangel-Buitrago
- Programa de Física, Facultad de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad del Atlántico, Barranquilla, Atlántico, Colombia
| | - Mohamed Keznine
- LESCB, URL-CNRST N° 18, Faculty of Sciences, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Tetouan, Morocco
| | - Imane Lamine
- Laboratory of Aquatic Systems, Marine and Continental Environments (AQUAMAR), Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir 80000, Morocco; Higher Institute of Nursing Professions and Technical Health, Errachidia, Morocco
| | - Fatima Zahra Hamiche
- LESCB, URL-CNRST N° 18, Faculty of Sciences, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Tetouan, Morocco
| | - Hatim Haddaoui
- Scientific Institute, University Mohammed V, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Mohamed Rida Abelouah
- Laboratory of Aquatic Systems, Marine and Continental Environments (AQUAMAR), Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir 80000, Morocco
| | - Manal Demiathi
- LESCB, URL-CNRST N° 18, Faculty of Sciences, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Tetouan, Morocco
| | - Brahim Oubahaouali
- LESCB, URL-CNRST N° 18, Faculty of Sciences, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Tetouan, Morocco
| | - Nadia Jellal
- Research Laboratory in Applied and Marine Geosciences, Geotechnics and Geohazards (LR3G), Faculty of Sciences, Abdelmalek Essaâdi University, 93000 Tetouan, Morocco
| | - Mounia Touaf
- LESCB, URL-CNRST N° 18, Faculty of Sciences, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Tetouan, Morocco
| | - Youssef Ahannach
- LESCB, URL-CNRST N° 18, Faculty of Sciences, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Tetouan, Morocco
| | - Najwa Hassou
- Higher Institute of Nursing Professions and Technical Health, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Sohayb Cherradi
- Polydisciplinary Faculty in Larache, University Abdelmalek Essadi, Morocco
| | - Mustapha Aksissou
- LESCB, URL-CNRST N° 18, Faculty of Sciences, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Tetouan, Morocco
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26
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Bernieri EM, Medeiros LS, Lopes UH, Vilas Boas FG, Santos SMD, Marques OKDL, Macêdo GRD, Lustosa R, Franke CR. Patterns and spatial distribution of sea turtle strandings in Alagoas, Brazil. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 201:116127. [PMID: 38412794 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116127] [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: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
This study makes a descriptive analysis of necropsied sea turtles registered in the Biota Conservation Institute database between May 2018 and May 2022 on the coast of Alagoas, Brazil. During this period, 79 animals of four species were necropsied: 87.4 % (69) Chelonia mydas, 6.3 % (5) Caretta caretta, 3.8 % (3) Lepidochelys olivacea and 2.5 % (2) Eretmochelys imbricata. C. mydas was the most frequent species, mainly juvenile females. In 29.1 % (23/79) evidence of anthropogenic interactions was found (e.g., fishing net marks, plastic waste in the digestive tract, trauma from collisions with boats). Cutaneous tumors suggestive of fibropapillomatosis in 35.4 % (28/79), in C. mydas and E. imbricata, half were in an area of high eutrophication, close to the capital. Endoparasites were found in 46.8 % (37/79) individuals. Information on strandings in the region is essential for understanding the use of the area and the impacts to which these animals are exposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliane Macedo Bernieri
- Federal University of Bahia - UFBA, Av. Milton Santos, 500, Ondina, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil, CEP: 40170-110; Biota Institute of Conservation, Rua Padre Odilon Lôbo, n° 5900 Guaxuma, Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil, CEP 57038-770.
| | - Luciana Santos Medeiros
- Biota Institute of Conservation, Rua Padre Odilon Lôbo, n° 5900 Guaxuma, Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil, CEP 57038-770
| | - Uylla Hipper Lopes
- Biota Institute of Conservation, Rua Padre Odilon Lôbo, n° 5900 Guaxuma, Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil, CEP 57038-770
| | - Francielly Gomes Vilas Boas
- Biota Institute of Conservation, Rua Padre Odilon Lôbo, n° 5900 Guaxuma, Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil, CEP 57038-770
| | | | | | | | - Ricardo Lustosa
- Federal University of Western Bahia, Barra Multidisciplinary Center, Av. 23 de Agosto, SN, Assunção, Barra, Bahia, Brazil, CEP: 47100-000
| | - Carlos Roberto Franke
- Federal University of Bahia - UFBA, Av. Milton Santos, 500, Ondina, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil, CEP: 40170-110
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27
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García-Regalado A, Herrera A, Almeda R. Microplastic and mesoplastic pollution in surface waters and beaches of the Canary Islands: A review. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 201:116230. [PMID: 38479326 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116230] [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: 12/03/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
The Canary Archipelago is a group of volcanic islands located in the North Atlantic Ocean with high marine biodiversity. This archipelago intercepts the Canary Current, the easternmost branch of the Azores Current in the North Atlantic Subtropical Gyre, which brings large amounts of litter from remote sources via oceanic transportation. It is, therefore, particularly vulnerable to marine plastic pollution. Here, we present a review of the available studies on mesoplastics and microplastics in the Canary Islands over the last decade to evaluate the level and distribution of plastic pollution in this archipelago. Specifically, we focused on data from beaches and surface waters to assess the pollution level among the different islands as well as between windward and leeward zones, and the main characteristics (size, type, colour, and polymer) of the plastics found in the Canary Islands. The concentrations of meso- and MPs on beaches ranged from 1.5 to 2972 items/m2 with a mean of 381 ± 721 items/m2. The concentration of MPs (>200 μm) in surface waters was highly variable with mean values of 998 × 103 ± 3364 × 103 items/km2 and 10 ± 31 items/m3. Plastic pollution in windward beaches was one order of magnitude significantly higher than in leeward beaches. The accumulation of MPs in surface waters was higher in the leeward zones of the high-elevation islands, corresponding to the Special Areas of Conservation (ZECs) and where the presence of marine litter windrows (MLW) has been reported. Microplastic fragments of polyethylene of the colour category "white/clear/uncoloured" were the most common type of plastic reported in both beaches and surface waters. More studies on the occurrence of MLW in ZECS and plastic pollution in the water column and sediments, including small-size fractions (<200 μm), are needed to better assess the level of plastic pollution and its fate in the Canary Islands. Overall, this review confirms that the Canary Archipelago is a hotspot of oceanic plastic pollution, with concentrations of MPs in surface waters in the highest range reported for oceanic islands and one of the highest recorded mean concentrations of beached meso- and microplastics in the world.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alicia Herrera
- EOMAR, ECOAQUA, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain
| | - Rodrigo Almeda
- EOMAR, ECOAQUA, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain.
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Wayman C, González-Pleiter M, Fernández-Piñas F, Sorribes EL, Fernández-Valeriano R, López-Márquez I, González-González F, Rosal R. Accumulation of microplastics in predatory birds near a densely populated urban area. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 917:170604. [PMID: 38309362 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170604] [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: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
The pollution due to plastic and other anthropogenic particles has steadily increased over the last few decades, presenting a significant threat to the environment and organisms, including avian species. This research aimed to investigate the occurrence of anthropogenic pollutants in the digestive and respiratory systems of four birds of prey: Common Buzzard (Buteo buteo), Black Kite (Milvus migrans), Eurasian Sparrowhawk (Accipiter nisus), and Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis). The results revealed widespread contamination in all species with microplastics (MPs) and cellulosic anthropogenic fibers (AFs), with an average of 7.9 MPs and 9.2 AFs per specimen. Every digestive system contained at least one MP, while 65 % of specimens exhibited MPs in their respiratory systems. This is the work reporting a high incidence of MPs in the respiratory system of birds, clearly indicating inhalation as a pathway for exposure to plastic pollution. The content of MPs and AFs varied significantly when comparing specimens collected from central Madrid with those recovered from other parts of the region, including rural environments, suburban areas, or less populated cities. This result aligns with the assumption that anthropogenic particles disperse from urban centers to surrounding areas. Additionally, the dominant particle shape consisted of small-sized fibers (> 98 %), primarily composed of polyester, polyethylene, acrylic materials, and cellulose fibers exhibiting indicators of industrial treatment. These findings emphasize the necessity for further research on the impact of plastic and other anthropogenic material contamination in avian species, calling for effective strategies to mitigate plastic pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloe Wayman
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Universidad de Alcalá, E-28871 Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel González-Pleiter
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, E-28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisca Fernández-Piñas
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, E-28049, Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación en Biodiversidad y Cambio Global (CIBC-UAM), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, C Darwin 2, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Elisa L Sorribes
- Wildlife Hospital, Group of Rehabilitation of the Autochthonous Fauna and their Habitat (GREFA), Monte del Pilar, Majadahonda, 28220, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rocío Fernández-Valeriano
- Wildlife Hospital, Group of Rehabilitation of the Autochthonous Fauna and their Habitat (GREFA), Monte del Pilar, Majadahonda, 28220, Madrid, Spain
| | - Irene López-Márquez
- Wildlife Hospital, Group of Rehabilitation of the Autochthonous Fauna and their Habitat (GREFA), Monte del Pilar, Majadahonda, 28220, Madrid, Spain
| | - Fernando González-González
- Wildlife Hospital, Group of Rehabilitation of the Autochthonous Fauna and their Habitat (GREFA), Monte del Pilar, Majadahonda, 28220, Madrid, Spain; Departmental Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28020, Madrid, Spain
| | - Roberto Rosal
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Universidad de Alcalá, E-28871 Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain.
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Noh HJ, Moon Y, Shim WJ, Cho EV, Hong SH. Experimental study on color and texture as cues for plastic debris ingestion by captive sea turtles. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 200:116055. [PMID: 38295483 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116055] [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: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
Sea turtles face considerable risks from ingesting marine debris. They are primarily visual feeders, so color may be important for identifying food suitability or enhancing prey detection. Here, we investigated the impacts of color and texture on foraging behavior in relation to plastic consumption. We experimentally assessed the influences of color and texture as attractors for sea turtles using edible jellyfish. The findings showed that the colors of objects significantly affected selective preferences, as evidenced by different behaviors by sea turtles in response to different colors. They exhibited diet-related selectivity toward colors similar to common aquarium food, and texture had a significant impact on complete ingestion. The results suggest that plastic resembling natural prey is more likely ingested. Also, sea turtles were attracted by the color yellow, suggesting that visually distinctive items can attract them. Our results provide fundamental knowledge, helping mitigate the effects of plastic pollution on wildlife.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hee-Jin Noh
- Ecological Risk Research Department, Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Geoje 53201, Republic of Korea
| | - Yelim Moon
- Ecological Risk Research Department, Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Geoje 53201, Republic of Korea; Department of Ocean Science, KIOST School, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34113, Republic of Korea
| | - Won Joon Shim
- Ecological Risk Research Department, Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Geoje 53201, Republic of Korea; Department of Ocean Science, KIOST School, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34113, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Vit Cho
- Department of Aqua, Aqua Planet, Yeosu 59744, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Hee Hong
- Ecological Risk Research Department, Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Geoje 53201, Republic of Korea; Department of Ocean Science, KIOST School, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34113, Republic of Korea.
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da Silva LVG, de Oliveira Carvalho Demarque I, Tostes ECL, de Souza Araújo MA, de Carvalho CEV, Canela MC, Barbosa LA, da Silveira LS. Identification and characterization of plastic debris in the gastrointestinal tract of Guiana dolphins (Sotalia guianensis) from Espírito Santo coast, Brazil. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 200:116076. [PMID: 38301435 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116076] [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: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
The Guiana dolphin (Sotalia guianensis) is categorized as vulnerable in the Brazilian list of endangered animals, and its populations suffer from several anthropological threats. In this study, we analyzed the presence of macro, meso, and microplastics (MPs) in Guiana dolphins (n = 12) in Brazil Southeastern coast by analysing their gastrointestinal tract. The MP extractions were carried out with H2O2 (35 %) to remove organic matter. Four specimens ingested meso and macroplastics, including an item of polypropylene of 19.22 cm that was produced about 943 km from the place in which the animal was found stranded. All the specimens analyzed had fragment-type microplastics in their intestines. Blue was the prevailing color, followed by black, green, and red. We highlight the contamination by microplastics in the species, still little investigated, especially the need to understand the contamination by microplastics along trophic levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Letícia Versiani Gomes da Silva
- Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Laboratório de Morfologia e Patologia Animal, Av. Alberto Lamego, N° 2000, Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| | - Isis de Oliveira Carvalho Demarque
- Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Laboratório de Morfologia e Patologia Animal, Av. Alberto Lamego, N° 2000, Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Eloá Corrêa Lessa Tostes
- Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Laboratório de Ciências Químicas, Av. Alberto Lamego, N° 2000, Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Marcos André de Souza Araújo
- Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Laboratório de Ciências Químicas, Av. Alberto Lamego, N° 2000, Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Carlos Eduardo Veiga de Carvalho
- Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Laboratório de Ciências Ambientais, Av. Alberto Lamego, N° 2000, Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Maria Cristina Canela
- Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Laboratório de Ciências Químicas, Av. Alberto Lamego, N° 2000, Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Lupércio Araújo Barbosa
- Instituto Organização Consciência Ambiental (Instituto ORCA), Guarapari, Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Serafim da Silveira
- Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Laboratório de Morfologia e Patologia Animal, Av. Alberto Lamego, N° 2000, Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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McCann Smith E, Bartosova Z, Wagner M, Jaspers VLB, Monclús L. Exposure to microplastics affects fatty acid composition in the Japanese quail depending on sex and particle size. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:169019. [PMID: 38048993 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169019] [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: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
Plastic ingestion in birds is a widespread phenomenon of increasing concern. However, little is known about how exposure to microplastics (MP) affects the health of birds. In other organisms, MP exposure alters lipid metabolism and composition. If also true in birds, this could affect their fitness, especially since birds heavily rely on lipids during migration and egg production. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine if ingestion of MP (polypropylene and polyethylene collected in nature) in two size ranges, large (3 mm) and small (<125 μm), affects lipid metabolism in the Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica). We orally exposed 55 one-week-old quail during 5 weeks to a total of 600 mg of MP in sizes of either large, small, or a mixture of both. After the exposure period, females fed small MP had higher liver masses compared to control females (on average ± SD, 8.95 ± 2.3 g vs. 6.34 ± 1.0 g), while liver lipid content did not differ in either males or females. The levels of monounsaturated fatty acids were lower in females exposed to large MP and the mixture of both MP sizes compared to controls. Females exposed to MP also had different levels of oleic- (18:1) and palmitoleic (16:1) acid compared to controls dependent on MP size. Exposure to small MP increased levels of palmitic- (16:0) and palmitoleic (16:1) acid in both males and females suggesting a possible increase in de novo fatty acid synthesis. Taken together, our results point towards a sex-specific sensitivity to MP as well as size-dependent MP effects on lipid metabolism in birds. Disruption of fatty acid composition could affect important life stages in female birds, such as migration and egg-laying. We stress the importance of further research focused on determining the mechanisms of action of MP on lipid metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliana McCann Smith
- Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Høgskoleringen 5, 7491 Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Zdenka Bartosova
- Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Høgskoleringen 5, 7491 Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Martin Wagner
- Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Høgskoleringen 5, 7491 Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Veerle L B Jaspers
- Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Høgskoleringen 5, 7491 Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Laura Monclús
- Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Høgskoleringen 5, 7491 Trondheim, Norway.
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Praved PH, Neethu KV, Nandan SB, Sankar ND, Aravind EH, Sebastian S, Marigoudar SR, Sharma KV. Evaluation of microplastic pollution and risk assessment in a tropical monsoonal estuary, with special emphasis on contamination in jellyfish. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 343:123158. [PMID: 38123117 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.123158] [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: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Estuaries, which serve as vital links between land and coastal ecosystems, play a significant part in facilitating the transfer of plastic waste from the land to the ocean. In this research, we examined the prevalence, characteristics, and ecological risks of microplastics (MPs) in the extensively urbanized Cochin Estuarine System (CES), India. Additionally, it represents one of the initial evidence-based examinations of MPs ingestion by jellyfish in Indian waters, focusing on Acromitus flagellatus, Blackfordia virginica, and Pleurobrachia pileus species. The abundance of MPs found in the surface water of the Cochin Estuarine System (CES) varied between 14.44 ± 9 to 30 ± 15.94 MP/m3, with an average of 21.6 ± 11 MP/m3. In both surface waters and jellyfish from the Cochin Estuarine System (CES), fibers were the most prevalent type of MPs, with polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polyamide (PA) being the most common polymer varieties. To evaluate the current levels of MPs and their effect on the CES, the Pollution Load Index (PLI), Potential Ecological Risk Index (PERI), and Polymeric Risk Index (H) were utilized. The high PLIestuary values (20.33), high Hestuary values (234.02), and extreme PERIestuary value (1646.06) indicate that the CES is facing an extreme ecological risk. Among the 280 jellyfish individuals examined, 118 (42.14%) were recognized to contain MPs with an average of 1.54 ± 2.68 MPs/individual. Pearson bivariate analysis revealed a significant correlation between the jellyfish bell size and number of plastics per individual. Comparison between jellyfish species revealed, the majority (66%) of the MPs identified in jellyfish were from A. flagellatus and 44 among the 50 jellyfish examined (88%) had MPs. These findings suggest that A. flagellatus may be a potential sink for MPs and may be utilized to be a bioindicator for monitoring MPs contamination in estuarine systems, aiding in future plastic pollution mitigation efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Hari Praved
- Department of Marine Biology, Microbiology & Biochemistry, School of Marine Sciences, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Cochin, 682016, Kerala, India.
| | - K V Neethu
- Department of Marine Biology, Microbiology & Biochemistry, School of Marine Sciences, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Cochin, 682016, Kerala, India.
| | - S Bijoy Nandan
- Department of Marine Biology, Microbiology & Biochemistry, School of Marine Sciences, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Cochin, 682016, Kerala, India.
| | - N Deepak Sankar
- Department of Marine Biology, Microbiology & Biochemistry, School of Marine Sciences, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Cochin, 682016, Kerala, India.
| | - E H Aravind
- Department of Marine Biology, Microbiology & Biochemistry, School of Marine Sciences, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Cochin, 682016, Kerala, India.
| | - Sruthy Sebastian
- Department of Marine Biology, Microbiology & Biochemistry, School of Marine Sciences, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Cochin, 682016, Kerala, India.
| | - S R Marigoudar
- National Centre for Coastal Research, NIOT Campus, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Govt. of India, Pallikaranai, Chennai, 600100, India.
| | - K V Sharma
- National Centre for Coastal Research, NIOT Campus, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Govt. of India, Pallikaranai, Chennai, 600100, India.
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33
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Aanesen M, Ahi JC, Abate TG, Khan FR, de Vries FP, Kite-Powell H, Beaumont NJ. Insights from international environmental legislation and protocols for the global plastic treaty. Sci Rep 2024; 14:2750. [PMID: 38302652 PMCID: PMC10834483 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-53099-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Plastic pollution has emerged as a global challenge necessitating collective efforts to mitigate its adverse environmental consequences. International negotiations are currently underway to establish a global plastic treaty. Emphasizing the need for solution-orientated research, rather than focusing on further defining the problems of widespread environmental occurrence and ecological impacts, this paper extracts insights and draws key patterns that are relevant for these international negotiations. The analysis reveals that (i) environmental rather than human health concerns have been the predominant driving force behind previous regulations targeting pollutants, and (ii) the decision to ban or discontinue the use of harmful pollutants is primarily affected by the availability of viable substitutes. These two key findings are relevant to the discussions of the ongoing Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) on the global plastic treaty and underscore the recognition of environmental consequences associated with plastic pollution while emphasizing the need to enhance the knowledge base of potential human health risks. Leveraging the availability of substitutes can significantly contribute to the development and implementation of effective strategies aimed at reducing plastic usage and corresponding pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margrethe Aanesen
- Centre for Applied Research, Norwegian School of Economics, Helleveien 30, 5045, Bergen, Norway.
| | - Julide C Ahi
- Norwegian Research Center (NORCE), Prof.Olav Hanssensvei 15, 4021, Stavanger, Norway
| | - Tenaw G Abate
- Department of Environmental Science, Aarhus University, Fredriksborgvej 399, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Farhan R Khan
- Norwegian Research Center (NORCE), Nygårdsporten 112, 5008, Bergen, Norway
| | - Frans P de Vries
- Department of Economics, Business School, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, Scotland, UK
| | - Hauke Kite-Powell
- Marine Policy Center, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, 266 Woods Hole Road, Woods Hole, MA, 02543-1050, USA
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Baes L, Santiago CD, Roman L, Dos Santos Costa PC, Pugliesi É, Reigada C. Beached seabirds as plastic biomonitors in Brazil from the Beach Monitoring Project of the Santos Basin (PMP-BS). MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 199:115847. [PMID: 38181467 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115847] [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: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
Bioindicator species are useful to monitor wildlife exposure to plastic pollution, and responses to plastic leakage and policy interventions. Here we explore the biomonitoring potential of different seabird and shorebirds species across six years of monitoring in Brazil. Using the necropsy stranding database of the Beach Monitoring Project of the Santos Basin (PMP-BS), we evaluated i) the frequency of birds-plastic interactions in Brazil; ii) whether plastic interactions have changed through time and in different coastal regions; and iii) potential bioindicators for monitoring the exposure of seabirds to plastic in the nearshore South Atlantic Ocean. We found 37 species that had ingested plastic, including ten new records, found that the rates of tube-nosed seabirds increased through time, and suggested two potential species. We discuss the potential for biomonitoring marine pollution in the South Atlantic Ocean using PMP-BS, providing a scheme for a better plastic pollution monitoring in Brazil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Baes
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ecologia e Recursos Naturais, Universidade Federal de São Carlos - UFSCar, Washington Luiz, s/n - Monjolinho, São Carlos, SP 13565-905, Brazil; Instituto de Pesquisas Cananéia, Av. Nina, 523 - Bairro Retiro das Caravelas, Cananéia, SP 11990-000, Brazil; Laboratório de Ecologia de Interações, Departamento de Ecologia e Biologia Evolutiva, Universidade Federal de São Carlos - UFSCar, Rod. Washington Luiz, s/n - Monjolinho, São Carlos, SP 13565-905, Brazil.
| | - Cristine Diniz Santiago
- Departamento de Ciências Ambientais, Universidade Federal de São Carlos - UFSCar, Washington Luiz, s/n - Monjolinho, São Carlos, SP 13565-905, Brazil
| | - Lauren Roman
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Battery Point, Hobart, Tasmania 7004, Australia; CSIRO Oceans and Atmosphere, 3-4 Castray Esp, Battery Point, Hobart, Tasmania 7004, Australia
| | - Priscilla Carla Dos Santos Costa
- Instituto de Pesquisas Cananéia, Av. Nina, 523 - Bairro Retiro das Caravelas, Cananéia, SP 11990-000, Brazil; Laboratório de Patologia Comparada de Animais Silvestres FMVZ/USP, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva, 87, Cidade Universitária "Armando Salles de Oliveira", São Paulo, SP 05508-270, Brazil
| | - Érica Pugliesi
- Departamento de Ciências Ambientais, Universidade Federal de São Carlos - UFSCar, Washington Luiz, s/n - Monjolinho, São Carlos, SP 13565-905, Brazil
| | - Carolina Reigada
- Laboratório de Ecologia de Interações, Departamento de Ecologia e Biologia Evolutiva, Universidade Federal de São Carlos - UFSCar, Rod. Washington Luiz, s/n - Monjolinho, São Carlos, SP 13565-905, Brazil
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Benjaminsen SC, Dehnhard N, Herzke D, Johnsen A, Anker-Nilssen T, Bourgeon S, Collard F, Langset M, Christensen-Dalsgaard S, Gabrielsen GW. The challenges of opportunistic sampling when comparing prevalence of plastics in diving seabirds: A multi-species example from Norway. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 199:116037. [PMID: 38242067 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
There is a need for baseline information about how much plastics are ingested by wildlife and potential negative consequences thereof. We analysed the frequency of occurrence (FO) of plastics >1 mm in the stomachs of five pursuit-diving seabird species collected opportunistically. Atlantic puffins (Fratercula arctica) found emaciated on beaches in SW Norway had the highest FO of plastics (58.8 %), followed by emaciated common guillemots (Uria aalge; 9.1 %) also found beached in either SW or SE Norway. No plastics were detected in razorbills (Alca torda), great cormorants (Phalacrocorax carbo), and European shags (Gulosus aristotelis) taken as bycatch in northern Norway. This is the first study to report on plastic ingestion of these five species in northern Europe, and it highlights both the usefulness and limitations of opportunistic sampling. Small sample sizes, as well as an unbalanced sample design, complicated the interpretation of the results.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nina Dehnhard
- Norwegian Institute for Nature Research (NINA), Høgskoleringen 9, 7034 Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Dorte Herzke
- The Climate and Environmental Research Institute NILU, Fram Centre, Hjalmar Johansens Gate 14, 9296 Tromsø, Norway; Norwegian Institute for Public Health, Lovisenberggt. 8, Oslo, Norway
| | - Arild Johnsen
- Natural History Museum University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1172 Blindern, 0318 Oslo, Norway
| | - Tycho Anker-Nilssen
- Norwegian Institute for Nature Research (NINA), Høgskoleringen 9, 7034 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Sophie Bourgeon
- UiT - The Arctic University of Norway, Department of Arctic and Marine Biology, Hansine Hansens veg 18, 9019 Tromsø, Norway
| | - France Collard
- Norwegian Polar Institute, Fram Centre, Hjalmar Johansens Gate 14, 9296 Tromsø, Norway; Norwegian Institute for Water Research (NIVA), Fram Centre, Hjalmar Johansens Gate 14, 9296 Tromsø, Norway
| | - Magdalene Langset
- Norwegian Institute for Nature Research (NINA), Høgskoleringen 9, 7034 Trondheim, Norway
| | | | - Geir Wing Gabrielsen
- Norwegian Polar Institute, Fram Centre, Hjalmar Johansens Gate 14, 9296 Tromsø, Norway
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McMullen K, Vargas FH, Calle P, Alavarado-Cadena O, Pakhomov EA, Alava JJ. Modelling microplastic bioaccumulation and biomagnification potential in the Galápagos penguin ecosystem using Ecopath and Ecosim (EwE) with Ecotracer. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0296788. [PMID: 38265981 PMCID: PMC10807758 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0296788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Bioaccumulation and biomagnification of anthropogenic particles are crucial factors in assessing microplastic impacts to marine ecosystems. Microplastic pollution poses a significant threat to iconic and often endangered species but examining their tissues and gut contents for contaminant analysis via lethal sampling is challenging due to ethical concerns and animal care restrictions. Incorporating empirical data from prey items and fecal matter into models can help trace microplastic movement through food webs. In this study, the Galápagos penguin food web served as an indicator species to assess microplastic bioaccumulation and biomagnification potential using trophodynamic Ecopath with Ecosim (EwE) modelling with Ecotracer. Empirical data collected from surface seawater near Galápagos penguin colonies, zooplankton, penguin prey, and penguin scat in October 2021 were used to inform the ecosystem model. Multiple scenarios, including a 99% elimination rate, were employed to assess model sensitivity. Model predictions revealed that microplastics can bioaccumulate in all predator-prey relationships, but biomagnification is highly dependent on the elimination rate. It establishes the need for more research into elimination rates of different plastics, which is a critical missing gap in current microplastic ecotoxicological and bioaccumulation science. Compared to empirical data, modelling efforts underpredicted microplastic concentrations in zooplankton and over-predicted concentrations in fish. Ultimately, the ecosystem modelling provides novel insights into potential microplastics' bioaccumulation and biomagnification risks. These findings can support regional marine plastic pollution management efforts to conserve native and endemic species of the Galápagos Islands and the Galápagos Marine Reserve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karly McMullen
- Ocean Pollution Research Unit, Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | - Paola Calle
- Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral, ESPOL, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, ESPOL Polytechnic University, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Omar Alavarado-Cadena
- Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral, ESPOL, Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, ESPOL Polytechnic University, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Evgeny A. Pakhomov
- Ocean Pollution Research Unit, Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Juan José Alava
- Ocean Pollution Research Unit, Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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37
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Mendonça I, Faria M, Rodrigues F, Cordeiro N. Microalgal-based industry vs. microplastic pollution: Current knowledge and future perspectives. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 909:168414. [PMID: 37963529 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168414] [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: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
Microalgae can play a crucial role in the environment due to their efficient capture of CO2 and their potential as a solution for a carbon-negative economy. Water quality is critical for the success and profitability of microalgal-based industries, and understanding their response to emergent pollutants, such as microplastics (MPs), is essential. Despite the published studies investigating the impact of MPs on microalgae, knowledge in this area remains limited. Most studies have mainly focused on microalgal growth, metabolite analysis, and photosynthetic activity, with significant discrepancies in what is known about the impact on biomass yield. Recent studies show that the yield of biomass production depends on the levels of water contamination by MPs, making it necessary to reduce the contamination levels in the water. However, present technologies for extracting and purifying water from MPs are limited, and further research and technological advancements are required. One promising solution is the use of bio-based polymer materials, such as bacterial cellulose, which offer biodegradability, cost-effectiveness, and environmentally friendly detoxifying properties. This review summarises the current knowledge on MPs pollution and its impact on the viability and proliferation of microalgae-based industries, highlights the need for further research, and discusses the potential of bio-solutions for MPs removal in microalgae-based industries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Mendonça
- LB3 - Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Madeira, Portugal; CIIMAR - Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Portugal
| | - Marisa Faria
- LB3 - Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Madeira, Portugal; CIIMAR - Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Portugal
| | - Filipa Rodrigues
- LB3 - Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Madeira, Portugal; CIIMAR - Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Portugal
| | - Nereida Cordeiro
- LB3 - Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Madeira, Portugal; CIIMAR - Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Portugal.
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Murphy EL, Gerber LR, Rochman CM, Polidoro B. A macroplastic vulnerability index for marine mammals, seabirds, and sea turtles in Hawai'i. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 908:168247. [PMID: 37918749 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168247] [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: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution is having devastating consequences for marine organisms across the planet. However, the population level effects of macroplastic pollution remain difficult and costly to quantify. As a result, there is a need for alternative approaches to evaluate species risk to plastic pollution and inform management needs. We apply a trait-based framework for macroplastic pollution to develop a relative vulnerability index-informed by three dimensions: likelihood of exposure, species' sensitivity, and population resilience-for marine mammals, seabirds, and sea turtles found in Hawai'i. This index ranks 63 study species based on their population level vulnerability to macroplastic pollution, with the highest scoring species being the most vulnerable. Our results indicate that ducks, waders, and noddies with large populations were the least vulnerable to macroplastics, while the most vulnerable were the Hawaiian monk seal, sea turtles, baleen whales, and some albatross and petrel species. This index can inform species in need of population monitoring in Hawai'i, and direct other management priorities (e.g., locations for clean-ups or booms). More broadly, this work exemplifies the value of qualitative risk assessment approaches for better understanding the population level effects of macroplastic pollution and showcases how vulnerability indices can be used to inform management priorities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin L Murphy
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe Campus, Life Sciences Center A Wing 451 E Tyler Mall, Room 209, Tempe, AZ 85281, United States of America; Center for Biodiversity Outcomes, Arizona State University, Tempe Camus, Life Sciences Center A Wing 451 E Tyler Mall, Room 351, Tempe, AZ 85281, United States of America; Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, 25 Wilcocks St, Earth Sciences, Room 3054, Toronto, ON M5S3B2, Canada.
| | - Leah R Gerber
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe Campus, Life Sciences Center A Wing 451 E Tyler Mall, Room 209, Tempe, AZ 85281, United States of America; Center for Biodiversity Outcomes, Arizona State University, Tempe Camus, Life Sciences Center A Wing 451 E Tyler Mall, Room 351, Tempe, AZ 85281, United States of America
| | - Chelsea M Rochman
- Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, 25 Wilcocks St, Earth Sciences, Room 3054, Toronto, ON M5S3B2, Canada
| | - Beth Polidoro
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe Campus, Life Sciences Center A Wing 451 E Tyler Mall, Room 209, Tempe, AZ 85281, United States of America; Center for Biodiversity Outcomes, Arizona State University, Tempe Camus, Life Sciences Center A Wing 451 E Tyler Mall, Room 351, Tempe, AZ 85281, United States of America; School of Mathematical and Natural Sciences, Arizona State University, West Campus, PO Box 37100, Phoenix, AZ 85069-2352, United States of America
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Gunaalan K, Almeda R, Vianello A, Lorenz C, Iordachescu L, Papacharalampos K, Nielsen TG, Vollertsen J. Does water column stratification influence the vertical distribution of microplastics? ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 340:122865. [PMID: 37926412 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122865] [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: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution has been confirmed in all marine compartments. However, information on the sub-surface microplastics (MPs) abundance is still limited. The vertical distribution of MPs can be influenced by water column stratification due to water masses of contrasting density. In this study, we investigated the vertical distribution of MPs in relation to the water column structure at nine sites in the Kattegat/Skagerrak (Denmark) in October 2020.A CTD was used to determine the stratification and pycnocline depth before sampling. Plastic-free pump-filter sampling devices were used to collect MPs from water samples (1-3 m3) at different depths. MPs concentration (MPs m-3) ranged from 18 to 87 MP m-3 (Median: 40 MP m-3; n = 9) in surface waters. In the mid waters, concentrations ranged from 16 to 157 MP m-3 (Median: 31 MP m-3; n = 6), while at deeper depths, concentrations ranged from 13 to 95 MP m-3 (Median: 34 MP m-3; n = 9). There was no significant difference in the concentration of MPs between depths. Regardless of the depth, polyester (47%), polypropylene (24%), polyethylene (10%), and polystyrene (9%) were the dominating polymers. Approximately 94% of the MPs fell within the size range of 11-300 μm across all depths. High-density polymers accounted for 68% of the MPs, while low-density polymers accounted for 32% at all depths. Overall, our results show that MPs are ubiquitous in the water column from surface to deep waters; we did not find any impact of water density on the depth distribution of MPs despite the strong water stratification in the Kattegat/Skagerrak.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuddithamby Gunaalan
- National Institute of Aquatic Resource, Technical University of Denmark, Denmark; Department of the Built Environment, Aalborg University, Denmark.
| | - Rodrigo Almeda
- National Institute of Aquatic Resource, Technical University of Denmark, Denmark; EOMAR, ECOAQUA, University of Las Palmas of Gran Canaria, Spain
| | - Alvise Vianello
- Department of the Built Environment, Aalborg University, Denmark
| | - Claudia Lorenz
- Department of the Built Environment, Aalborg University, Denmark; Department of Science and Environment, Roskilde University, Denmark
| | | | | | | | - Jes Vollertsen
- Department of the Built Environment, Aalborg University, Denmark
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Maddela NR, Kakarla D, Venkateswarlu K, Megharaj M. Additives of plastics: Entry into the environment and potential risks to human and ecological health. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 348:119364. [PMID: 37866190 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.119364] [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: 06/17/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
A steep rise in global plastic production and significant discharge of plastic waste are expected in the near future. Plastics pose a threat to the ecosystem and human health through the generation of particulate plastics that act as carriers for other emerging contaminants, and the release of toxic chemical additives. Since plastic additives are not covalently bound, they can freely leach into the environment. Due to their occurrence in various environmental settings, the additives exert significant ecotoxicity. However, only 25% of plastic additives have been characterized for their potential ecological concern. Despite global market statistics highlighting the substantial environmental burden caused by the unrestricted production and use of plastic additives, information on their ecotoxicity remains incomplete. By focusing on the ecological impacts of plastic additives, the present review aims to provide detailed insights into the following aspects: (i) diversity and occurrence in the environment, (ii) leaching from plastic materials, (iii) trophic transfer, (iv) human exposure, (v) risks to ecosystem and human health, and (vi) legal guidelines and mitigation strategies. These insights are of immense value in restricting the use of toxic additives, searching for eco-friendly alternatives, and establishing or revising guidelines on plastic additives by global health and environmental agencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naga Raju Maddela
- Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Técnica de Manabí, Portoviejo, 130105, Ecuador
| | - Dhatri Kakarla
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Kadiyala Venkateswarlu
- Formerly Department of Microbiology, Sri Krishnadevaraya University, Anantapuramu, 515003, India
| | - Mallavarapu Megharaj
- Global Centre for Environmental Remediation (GCER), College of Engineering Science and Environment, ATC Building, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia; Cooperative Research Centre for Contamination Assessment and Remediation of Environment (CRC CARE), The University of Newcastle, ATC Building, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.
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Zhao X, Gao S, Ouyang D, Chen S, Qiu C, Qiu H, Chen Z. Advances on micro/nanoplastics and their effects on the living organisms: A review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 904:166722. [PMID: 37678525 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
Micro/nanoplastics (MPs) are attracting increasing attention owing to the potential threats they pose to the sustainability of the environment and the health of living organisms. Thus, a comprehensive understanding of the influence of MPs on living organisms is vital for developing countermeasures. We conducted an extensive literature search to retrieve the articles related to MPs via the Web of Science. Accordingly, 152 articles published in the last decade and in influential journals were selected to analyze the effects of MPs on plants, animals, microorganisms, and humans as well as the current status, hotspots, and trends of studies on MPs. The results showed that owing to the special characteristics of MPs and anthropogenic activities, MPs have become ubiquitous worldwide. MPs are ingested by plants and animals and enter the human body through various pathways, resulting in numerous adverse effects, such as growth inhibition, oxidative stress, inflammation, organ damage, and germ cell lesions. Moreover, they affect microorganisms by reshaping the structure and function of microbial communities and changing the spread pathway. However, microorganisms can also contribute to the degradation of MPs. With increasing evidence of the adverse effects of MPs on biota, coping with MP pollution and mitigating harmful outcomes have emerged as major challenges. This review focuses on (1) the main effects of MPs on living organisms, ranging from microorganisms to humans, (2) the current status and hotspots of studies related to MPs, and (3) the challenges and prospects of further studies on MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinlin Zhao
- Institute of Bast Fiber Crops, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changsha 410205, Hunan Province, China
| | - Shuaishuai Gao
- Hunan Institute of Microbiology, Changsha 410009, Hunan Province, China
| | - Da Ouyang
- Key Laboratory of Soil Contamination Bioremediation of Zhejiang Province, School of Environmental & Resource Sciences, Zhejiang Agriculture and Forestry University, Hangzhou 311300, China
| | - Su Chen
- Institute of Bast Fiber Crops, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changsha 410205, Hunan Province, China
| | - Caisheng Qiu
- Institute of Bast Fiber Crops, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changsha 410205, Hunan Province, China
| | - Huajiao Qiu
- Institute of Bast Fiber Crops, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changsha 410205, Hunan Province, China.
| | - Zhaoming Chen
- Institute of Environment, Resources, Soil and Fertilizer, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, Zhejiang Province, China.
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Hart LB, Dziobak M, Wells RS, McCabe EB, Conger E, Curtin T, Knight M, Weinstein J. Plastic, It's What's for Dinner: A Preliminary Comparison of Ingested Particles in Bottlenose Dolphins and Their Prey. OCEANS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 4:409-422. [PMID: 38766537 PMCID: PMC11101200 DOI: 10.3390/oceans4040028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic ingestion was reported for common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) inhabiting Sarasota Bay, FL, USA, a community that also has prevalent exposure to plasticizers (i.e., phthalates) at concentrations higher than human reference populations. Exposure sources are currently unknown, but plastic-contaminated prey could be a vector. To explore the potential for trophic exposure, prey fish muscle and gastrointestinal tract (GIT) tissues and contents were screened for suspected microplastics, and particle properties (e.g., color, shape, surface texture) were compared with those observed in gastric samples from free-ranging dolphins. Twenty-nine fish across four species (hardhead catfish, Ariopsis felis; pigfish, Orthopristis chrysoptera; pinfish, Lagodon rhomboides; and Gulf toadfish, Opsanus beta) were collected from Sarasota Bay during September 2022. Overall, 97% of fish (n = 28) had suspected microplastics, and GIT abundance was higher than muscle. Fish and dolphin samples contained fibers and films; however, foams were common in dolphin samples and not observed in fish. Suspected tire wear particles (TWPs) were not in dolphin samples, but 23.1% and 32.0% of fish muscle and GIT samples, respectively, contained at least one suspected TWP. While some similarities in particles were shared between dolphins and fish, small sample sizes and incongruent findings for foams and TWPs suggest further investigation is warranted to understand trophic transfer potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leslie B. Hart
- Department of Health and Human Performance, School of Health Sciences, College of Charleston, Charleston, SC 29424, USA
- Center for Coastal Environmental and Human Health, College of Charleston, Charleston, SC 29424, USA
| | - Miranda Dziobak
- Department of Health and Human Performance, School of Health Sciences, College of Charleston, Charleston, SC 29424, USA
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Randall S. Wells
- Chicago Zoological Society’s Sarasota Dolphin Research Program, c/o Mote Marine Laboratory, Sarasota, FL 34236, USA
| | - Elizabeth Berens McCabe
- Chicago Zoological Society’s Sarasota Dolphin Research Program, c/o Mote Marine Laboratory, Sarasota, FL 34236, USA
| | - Eric Conger
- Department of Biology, School of Sciences, Mathematics, and Engineering, College of Charleston, Charleston, SC 29424, USA
| | - Tita Curtin
- Department of Health and Human Performance, School of Health Sciences, College of Charleston, Charleston, SC 29424, USA
| | - Maggie Knight
- Graduate Program in Marine Biology, Grice Marine Laboratory, College of Charleston, Charleston, SC 29424, USA
| | - John Weinstein
- Department of Biology, The Citadel, Charleston, SC 29409, USA
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Barry J, Rindorf A, Gago J, Silburn B, McGoran A, Russell J. Top 10 marine litter items on the seafloor in European seas from 2012 to 2020. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 902:165997. [PMID: 37536608 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
We studied the ten most frequently encountered litter items from the seafloor in European seas to advance actions and inform future mitigation measures to reduce marine litter and the associated social, economic and environmental impacts it has on European seas and beyond. Data were collected during trawl surveys from 2012 to 2020 as part of national and regional marine litter monitoring programmes in the Greater North Sea (5652 trawls), Celtic Seas (3505), Bay of Biscay (651), and Baltic Sea (3688). A Bayesian approach is used to quantify the variation in the item rankings. Overall, plastic items predominate in the top positions in each area. Synthetic rope, plastic sheets, monofilament fishing line and plastic bags occupy four of the top five positions for each of the Greater North Sea, Celtic Seas and the Bay of Biscay. Items from fishing and rope (representing mainly other maritime activities) are strongly represented in the top ten lists from three of our four areas, with synthetic rope, fishing nets, and tangled and untangled monofilament fishing line listed in the top seven positions for the Greater North Sea, Celtic Seas and the Bay of Biscay. The top ten items in the Baltic Sea are of a different profile to the other regions, but the most commonly caught items are still predominantly plastic, with plastic sheets, other plastic items and plastic bags occupying three of the top four positions. The findings in this study highlight the need to address sea-based sources to try and eliminate litter from fishing and maritime activities. Measures such as improved port reception facilities, marking of fishing gear, promoting reporting of the loss of fishing gear and increasing public awareness should be introduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jon Barry
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Lowestoft Laboratory, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft, Suffolk NR33 0HT, England, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
| | - Anna Rindorf
- National Institute of Aquatic Resources, Technical University of Denmark, Denmark
| | - Jesus Gago
- Centro Nacional-IEO (CSIC) Vigo, Subida a Radio Faro 50, 36390 Vigo, Spain
| | - Briony Silburn
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Lowestoft Laboratory, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft, Suffolk NR33 0HT, England, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Alex McGoran
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Lowestoft Laboratory, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft, Suffolk NR33 0HT, England, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Josie Russell
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Lowestoft Laboratory, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft, Suffolk NR33 0HT, England, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
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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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Beriot N, Zornoza R, Lwanga EH, Zomer P, van Schothorst B, Ozbolat O, Lloret E, Ortega R, Miralles I, Harkes P, van Steenbrugge J, Geissen V. Intensive vegetable production under plastic mulch: A field study on soil plastic and pesticide residues and their effects on the soil microbiome. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 900:165179. [PMID: 37385505 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
Intensive agriculture relies on external inputs to reach high productivity and profitability. Plastic mulch, mainly in the form of Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE), is widely used in agriculture to decrease evaporation, increase soil temperature and prevent weeds. The incomplete removal of LDPE mulch after use causes plastic contamination in agricultural soils. In conventional agriculture, the use of pesticides also leaves residues accumulating in soils. Thus, the objective of this study was to measure plastic and pesticide residues in agricultural soils and their effects on the soil microbiome. For this, we sampled soil (0-10 cm and 10-30 cm) from 18 parcels from 6 vegetable farms in SE Spain. The farms were under either organic or conventional management, where plastic mulch had been used for >25 years. We measured the macro- and micro-light density plastic debris contents, the pesticide residue levels, and a range of physiochemical properties. We also carried out DNA sequencing on the soil fungal and bacterial communities. Plastic debris (>100 μm) was found in all samples with an average number of 2 × 103 particles kg-1 and area of 60 cm2 kg-1. We found 4-10 different pesticide residues in all conventional soils, for an average of 140 μg kg-1. Overall, pesticide content was ∼100 times lower in organic farms. The soil microbiomes were farm-specific and related to different soil physicochemical parameters and contaminants. Regarding contaminants, bacterial communities responded to the total pesticide residues, the fungicide Azoxystrobin and the insecticide Chlorantraniliprole as well as the plastic area. The fungicide Boscalid was the only contaminant to influence the fungal community. The wide spread of plastic and pesticide residues in agricultural soil and their effects on soil microbial communities may impact crop production and other environmental services. More studies are required to evaluate the total costs of intensive agriculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Beriot
- Soil Physics and Land Management Group, Wageningen University & Research, Droevendaalsesteeg 4, 6708 PB Wageningen, the Netherlands; Sustainable Use, Management and Reclamation of Soil and Water Research Group, Department of Agricultural Engineering, Universidad Politécnica de Cartagena, Paseo Alfonso XIII, 48, 30203 Cartagena, Spain
| | - Raúl Zornoza
- Sustainable Use, Management and Reclamation of Soil and Water Research Group, Department of Agricultural Engineering, Universidad Politécnica de Cartagena, Paseo Alfonso XIII, 48, 30203 Cartagena, Spain
| | - Esperanza Huerta Lwanga
- Soil Physics and Land Management Group, Wageningen University & Research, Droevendaalsesteeg 4, 6708 PB Wageningen, the Netherlands; Agroecologia, El Colegio de la Frontera Sur, Unidad Campeche, Mexico
| | - Paul Zomer
- Wageningen Food Safety Research, PO. Box 230, 6700 AE Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Benjamin van Schothorst
- Soil Physics and Land Management Group, Wageningen University & Research, Droevendaalsesteeg 4, 6708 PB Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Onurcan Ozbolat
- Sustainable Use, Management and Reclamation of Soil and Water Research Group, Department of Agricultural Engineering, Universidad Politécnica de Cartagena, Paseo Alfonso XIII, 48, 30203 Cartagena, Spain
| | - Eva Lloret
- Sustainable Use, Management and Reclamation of Soil and Water Research Group, Department of Agricultural Engineering, Universidad Politécnica de Cartagena, Paseo Alfonso XIII, 48, 30203 Cartagena, Spain
| | - Raúl Ortega
- Department of Agronomy & Center for Intensive Mediterranean Agrosystems and Agri-food Biotechnology (CIAIMBITAL), University of Almeria, E-04120 Almería, Spain
| | - Isabel Miralles
- Department of Agronomy & Center for Intensive Mediterranean Agrosystems and Agri-food Biotechnology (CIAIMBITAL), University of Almeria, E-04120 Almería, Spain
| | - Paula Harkes
- Soil Physics and Land Management Group, Wageningen University & Research, Droevendaalsesteeg 4, 6708 PB Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Joris van Steenbrugge
- Laboratory of Nematology, Wageningen University & Research, Droevendaalsesteeg 1, 6708 PB Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Violette Geissen
- Soil Physics and Land Management Group, Wageningen University & Research, Droevendaalsesteeg 4, 6708 PB Wageningen, the Netherlands
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Matos DM, Ramos JA, Bessa F, Silva V, Rodrigues I, Antunes S, Dos Santos I, Coentro J, Brandão ALC, Batista de Carvalho LAE, Marques MPM, Santos S, Paiva VH. Anthropogenic debris ingestion in a tropical seabird community: Insights from taxonomy and foraging distribution. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 898:165437. [PMID: 37437636 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
Oceans have been considered as an unlimited supply of goods and services, but resource extraction and waste disposal became ubiquitous and have been damaging the health of marine ecosystems. Finding suitable sentinel species of the human impacts on the oceans is thus imperative, since they may work as early warnings of disruptive situations. In this study, we investigated how taxonomy and foraging distribution influenced the occurrence of anthropogenic debris among five seabird species inhabiting the tropical Atlantic region. Occurrence of anthropogenic debris was assessed using faeces of breeding individuals as a proxy of ingestion. A total of 268 particles were extracted from all samples. The categories "fragments" and "fibres", as well as the colour "blue", were the most prevalent characteristics across species. There was a high diversity of polymers from cellulosic particles to synthetic plastics (Anthropogenic Cellulosic 26.9 %; Polyester 7.7 %; Varnish 5.8 %; Polypropylene 1.9 %). Species with a more coastal foraging strategy exhibited higher occurrence and number of anthropogenic debris when compared to species foraging comparably more in pelagic areas. This suggests that anthropogenic debris are more prevalent in coastal foraging areas, where human activities occur in higher number and frequency (e.g., fisheries) and sources of freshwater input from inland are at close distance. These results provide more evidence to the growing perception on the ubiquity and diversity of anthropogenic debris in the marine environment, and further support the usefulness of using seabirds as bio-indicators of anthropogenic pollution in both neritic and oceanic regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- D M Matos
- University of Coimbra, MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre/ARNET - Aquatic Research Network, Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - J A Ramos
- University of Coimbra, MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre/ARNET - Aquatic Research Network, Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Filipa Bessa
- University of Coimbra, MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre/ARNET - Aquatic Research Network, Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Vítor Silva
- University of Coimbra, MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre/ARNET - Aquatic Research Network, Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Isabel Rodrigues
- Biosfera Cabo Verde, Sul do Cemitério, Rua 5 - Caixa Postal 233, São Vicente, Cabo Verde
| | - Stefan Antunes
- Biosfera Cabo Verde, Sul do Cemitério, Rua 5 - Caixa Postal 233, São Vicente, Cabo Verde
| | - I Dos Santos
- University of Coimbra, MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre/ARNET - Aquatic Research Network, Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Coentro
- University of Coimbra, MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre/ARNET - Aquatic Research Network, Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - A L C Brandão
- University of Coimbra, Molecular Physical-Chemistry R&D Unit, Department of Chemistry, 3004-535 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - L A E Batista de Carvalho
- University of Coimbra, Molecular Physical-Chemistry R&D Unit, Department of Chemistry, 3004-535 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - M P M Marques
- University of Coimbra, Molecular Physical-Chemistry R&D Unit, Department of Chemistry, 3004-535 Coimbra, Portugal; University of Coimbra, Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sara Santos
- University of Coimbra, MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre/ARNET - Aquatic Research Network, Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - V H Paiva
- University of Coimbra, MARE - Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre/ARNET - Aquatic Research Network, Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
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Maes T, Preston-Whyte F, Lavelle S, Gomiero A, Booth AM, Belzunce-Segarra MJ, Bellas J, Brooks S, Bakir A, Devriese LI, Pham CK, De Witte B. A recipe for plastic: Expert insights on plastic additives in the marine environment. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 196:115633. [PMID: 37864860 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115633] [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: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
The production and consumption of plastic products had been steadily increasing over the years, leading to more plastic waste entering the environment. Plastic pollution is ubiquitous and comes in many types and forms. To enhance or modify their properties, chemical additives are added to plastic items during manufacturing. The presence and leakage of these additives, from managed and mismanaged plastic waste, into the environment are of growing concern. In this study, we gauged, via an online questionnaire, expert knowledge on the use, characteristics, monitoring and risks of plastic additives to the marine environment. We analysed the survey results against actual data to identify and prioritise risks and gaps. Participants also highlighted key factors for future consideration, including gaining a deeper understanding of the use and types of plastic additives, how they leach throughout the entire lifecycle, their toxicity, and the safety of alternative options. More extensive chemical regulation and an evaluation of the essentiality of their use should also be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Maes
- GRID-Arendal, Teaterplassen 3, 4836 Arendal, Norway.
| | | | | | - Alessio Gomiero
- NORCE Climate and Environment dep, Mekjarvik 12, 4072 Randaberg, Norway
| | - Andy M Booth
- SINTEF Ocean, Brattørkaia 17C, 7010 Trondheim, Norway
| | | | - Juan Bellas
- Centro Oceanográfico de Vigo, Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO), CSIC, Subida a Radio Faro 50, Vigo 36390, Spain
| | - Steven Brooks
- Norwegian Institute for Water Research (NIVA), Økernveien 94, 0579 Oslo, Norway
| | - Adil Bakir
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), Pakefield Road, Lowestoft, Suffolk NR33 0HT, UK
| | - Lisa I Devriese
- Flanders Marine Institute (VLIZ), InnovOcean Campus, Jacobsenstraat 1, 8400 Ostend, Belgium
| | - Christopher Kim Pham
- Instituto de Investigação em Ciências do Mar - OKEANOS, Universidade dos Açores, Horta, Portugal
| | - Bavo De Witte
- Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Marine Research (ILVO-Marine), Jacobsenstraat 1, 8400 Ostend, Belgium
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Sá S, Torres-Pereira A, Ferreira M, Monteiro SS, Fradoca R, Sequeira M, Vingada J, Eira C. Microplastics in Cetaceans Stranded on the Portuguese Coast. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3263. [PMID: 37893986 PMCID: PMC10603649 DOI: 10.3390/ani13203263] [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: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
This study characterises microplastics in small cetaceans on the coast of Portugal and assesses the relationship between several biological variables and the amount of detected microplastics. The intestines of 38 stranded dead cetaceans were processed in the laboratory, with digestion methods adapted to the amount of organic matter in each sample. The influence of several biological and health variables (e.g., species, sex, body condition) on the amount of microplastics was tested in all analysed species and particularly in common dolphins, due to the larger number of available samples. Most of the analysed individuals had microplastics in the intestine (92.11%), with harbour porpoises revealing a significantly higher median number of microplastics than common dolphins, probably due to their different diets, use of habitat and feeding strategies. None of the other tested variables significantly influenced the number of microplastics. Moreover, the microplastics found should not be enough to cause physical or chemical sublethal effects, although the correlation between microplastic ingestion and plastic additive bioaccumulation in cetacean tissues requires further investigation. Future monitoring in biota should rely on improved and standardised protocols for microplastic analyses in complex samples to allow for accurate analyses of larger samples and spatio-temporal comparisons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Sá
- Department of Biology & CESAM & ECOMARE/CPRAM, Universidade de Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (A.T.-P.); (S.S.M.); (C.E.)
| | - Andreia Torres-Pereira
- Department of Biology & CESAM & ECOMARE/CPRAM, Universidade de Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (A.T.-P.); (S.S.M.); (C.E.)
| | - Marisa Ferreira
- Portuguese Wildlife Society (SPVS), Estação de Campo de Quiaios, 3081-101 Figueira da Foz, Portugal; (M.F.); (R.F.); (J.V.)
| | - Sílvia S. Monteiro
- Department of Biology & CESAM & ECOMARE/CPRAM, Universidade de Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (A.T.-P.); (S.S.M.); (C.E.)
| | - Raquel Fradoca
- Portuguese Wildlife Society (SPVS), Estação de Campo de Quiaios, 3081-101 Figueira da Foz, Portugal; (M.F.); (R.F.); (J.V.)
| | - Marina Sequeira
- Instituto da Conservação da Natureza e Florestas (ICNF), Av. da República 16, 1050-191 Lisboa, Portugal;
| | - José Vingada
- Portuguese Wildlife Society (SPVS), Estação de Campo de Quiaios, 3081-101 Figueira da Foz, Portugal; (M.F.); (R.F.); (J.V.)
| | - Catarina Eira
- Department of Biology & CESAM & ECOMARE/CPRAM, Universidade de Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (A.T.-P.); (S.S.M.); (C.E.)
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Koizumi K, Okabe A, Kimukai H, Sato H, Taguchi H, Nishimura M, Kwon BG, Saido K. Novel decomposition of polycarbonate and effect for marine ecosystem. RSC Adv 2023; 13:29668-29674. [PMID: 37842072 PMCID: PMC10568682 DOI: 10.1039/d3ra04127a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Analysis of pollution of the ocean plastics is presently being extensively carried out but special attention should be direct to matters. It is widely believed that plastic dose not decompose in the ocean. Certain contaminants, bisphenol-A (BPA) that serves the material for polycarbonate (PC) and epoxy resin (EPX) both of which may possibly be elute or degrade from commercial products, have often been detected in rivers, lakes and oceans. To clarify in detail the extend of this impact of this situation, purified PC (BPA free) was decomposed at temperatures range 50-230 °C. PC was seen to start decomposing at 50 °C over a 3 day period to generated 11 μg kg-1 BPA. Based on the rate constants of BPA, the activation energy was calculated 42.0 kJ mol-1. Since this value is almost same as the EPX and polystyrene (PS) of each decomposition. Based on the PC decomposition rate and the actual BPA value in the deep sea, the 280 million metric tons (MT) BPA in the world ocean was estimated. Unlike plastics, BPA shows endocrine disrupting in fish. It should thus be considered that degraded PC and EPX pose a serious threat to the marine ecosystem, directly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koshiro Koizumi
- Collage of Science and Technology, Nihon University Funabashi Chiba Japan
| | - Akifumi Okabe
- Collage of Science and Technology, Nihon University Funabashi Chiba Japan
| | | | - Hideto Sato
- Department of Architecture and Living Design, Junior College of Nihon University Funabashi Chiba Japan
| | | | - Masahiko Nishimura
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo Kashiwa Chiba Japan
| | - Bum Gun Kwon
- Chosun College of Science & Technology Gwanju South Korea
| | - Katsuhiko Saido
- Collage of Science and Technology, Nihon University Funabashi Chiba Japan
- Albatross Alliance Tokyo Japan
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Mejjad N, Laissaoui A, Fekri A, Hammoumi OE. Marine plastic pollution in Morocco: state of the knowledge on origin, occurrence, fate, and management. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:107371-107389. [PMID: 37084049 PMCID: PMC10119835 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-26973-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution presents a major challenge facing stakeholders and decision-making worldwide. Plastics in the ocean damage biodiversity and marine ecosystem services that the blue economy relies upon. The present work analyses and reviews the literature on plastic pollution and the background knowledge about marine plastic pollution in Morocco. The economy of Morocco depends mainly on marine activities, including fisheries, tourism, and maritime trade. These sectors were identified as the main in-situ sources of plastics entering Moroccan coastal waters. The analysis results showed that the increasing abundance of plastics in such marine systems causes substantial economic loss to blue economy activities. In contrast, the lack of data on the plastic waste quantity entering Moroccan water is a limiting factor for assessing plastic pollution. This highlights the need for a risk assessment and more field investigations to value the weight impacts of marine activities generators of plastics on biodiversity and the economy. In addition, implementing laws and rules forbidding the disposal of plastic waste (PW) in public spaces, mainly beaches, and streets, is urgently needed. Raising awareness of plastic waste management and prioritizing improved waste collection, sorting, and management would boost Morocco's establishment and adoption of circular economy strategies. It is worth noting that while implementing the management projects and regulatory frameworks of plastic waste, considering their source and usage purpose is mandatory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nezha Mejjad
- Centre National de l'Energie, des Sciences et des Techniques Nucléaires (CNESTEN), Rabat, Morocco.
| | - Abdelmourhit Laissaoui
- Centre National de l'Energie, des Sciences et des Techniques Nucléaires (CNESTEN), Rabat, Morocco
| | - Ahmed Fekri
- LGAGE, Department of Geology, Faculty of Sciences Ben M'sik, University Hassan II-Casablanca, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Ouafa El Hammoumi
- LGAGE, Department of Geology, Faculty of Sciences Ben M'sik, University Hassan II-Casablanca, Casablanca, Morocco
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