Effects of microplastics on sessile invertebrates in the eastern coast of Thailand: An approach to coastal zone conservation. Issue 1 (15th November 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Thushari, Gajahin Gamage Nadeeka; Senevirathna, Jayan Duminda Mahesh; Yakupitiyage, Amararatne; Chavanich, Suchana
• Is Part Of: Marine pollution bulletin. Volume 124:Issue 1(2017)
• Page Start: 349
• Page End: 355
• Publication Date: 2017-11-15
• Subjects: Microplastic accumulation -- Sessile invertebrate -- Filter feeder -- Coastal ecosystem -- Intertidal zone -- Coastal pollution -- Indicator organism; Marine pollution -- Periodicals; Marine Biology -- Periodicals; Water Pollution -- Periodicals; Mer -- Pollution -- Périodiques; Publications périodiques; Pollution des mers; Lutte antipollution; Electronic journals; 363.7394
• DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.06.010
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0025-326X

Abstract

Abstract: This study assessed the microplastic contamination of 3 most abundant sessile and intertidal invertebrates (Rock Oyster: Saccostrea forskalii, Striped Barnacle: Balanus amphitrite, Periwinkle: Littoraria sp.) in 3 beaches of the eastern coasts of Thailand. The results showed a significant accumulation of microplastics in the invertebrates at rates of 0.2–0.6 counts/g indicating higher pollution levels along the coastline. Filter feeding organisms showed comparatively higher accumulation rates of microplastics. Thus, contaminated bivalves pose potential health risks for seafood consumers. The plastic pollutant prevalence in sessile and intertidal communities was corresponded with pollution characteristics of contaminated beach habitats where they live. Thus, bivalves, gastropods and barnacles can be used as indicators for contamination of microplastics in the areas. This study also demonstrated the need for controlling plastic pollution in Thai coastal areas. Highlights: Microplastic contamination was identified in shellfishes of eastern coast Thailand. Microplastic accumulation rates of sessile invertebrates were 0.2–0.6 particles/g. Marine organisms at Angsila coast had the highest microplastic accumulation rates compared to other sites. Majority types of the microplastics detected in the samples were polyamide nylon and polyethylene. Sessile intertidal species can act as bio-indicators for plastic pollution on beaches.