Microplastics are small plastic materials often defined as those between 5 mm and 0.05 mm in size. Microplastics can have toxicological impacts on various biota, from gut blockages to the transport or leaching of toxicants used in their production or absorbed from the surrounding environment. Although microplastic research has increased significantly, microplastic research in Africa lags behind that of developed countries. South Africa is the African nation with the highest number of microplastic publications. We aimed to determine the current state of microplastic research in South Africa. A total of 46 publications on microplastics in South Africa have been produced. However, many of these publications use methods that might not be accurate in determining holistic descriptions of microplastics in the aquatic environment. Similarly, many ecologically relevant environments and species have not been investigated for microplastics in the country, including any atmospheric or terrestrial environment. We conclude that, although the research being produced in South Africa can be considered adequate, a singular standard method for sampling and assessing microplastics in South African environments is required. The production of such a standard method would be critical to use as a monitoring tool to determine and compare microplastic abundances across the country and globally. SIGNIFICANCE: • More than 40 publications on microplastics have been produced in South Africa. • Microplastics have been discovered in multiple aquatic environments in South Africa, but have not been investigated in atmospheric or terrestrial environments. • Polymer analysis was limited in published research. • A standard method is required for comparing between studies. • Terrestrial and atmospheric microplastic studies are required.

ABSTRACT Microplastics (MP) pose a major environmental problem for estuaries areas, as they are exposed to multiple sources of plastic waste. In this study, the spatiotemporal influence of environmental variables on the abundance, distribution and types of MP in surface waters of Tumaco Bay were assessed. The samples were collected in the rainy and dry seasons of 2020, in the inner and outer estuary, and were processed by density separation. MP abundance was higher in dry season (11.40 ± 2.60 ítems/m³) and in the inner estuary (8.42 ± 4.91 items/m³). Fibers were the most abundant type of MP (53.89 %). Salinity and TDS were significantly correlated with fibers, and precipitation with fragments, films and total MP. These results demonstrate high contamination (8.13 items/m³) and an increase in MP concentration in Bay. This could be related to the exposure of waste carried by the rivers. On the other hand, the higher abundance of MP in the dry season could be due to a decrease in dispersion for an entrance fewer of water to system and an increase in density of water, related to the increase in salinity, which favors the buoyancy of MP.

RESUMEN Los microplásticos (MP) suponen una gran problemática ambiental para las zonas estuarinas, al estar expuestas a múltiples fuentes de desechos plásticos. En este estudio, se evaluó la influencia espacio-temporal de variables ambientales sobre la abundancia, distribución y tipos de MP en la bahía de Tumaco. Las muestras se recolectaron en épocas de lluvia y seca de 2020, en el estuario interno y externo, y se procesaron mediante separación por densidad. La abundancia de MP fue mayor en época seca (11.40 ± 2.60 ítems/m³) y en el estuario interno (8.42 ± 4.91 ítems/m³). Las fibras fueron el tipo de MP más abundante (53.89 %). Se correlacionaron significativamente la salinidad y solidos totales disueltos (TDS) con fibras, y la precipitación con fragmentos, láminas y MP totales. Estos resultados demuestran alta contaminación (8.13 ítems/m³) y un aumento de la concentración de MP en la bahía. Esto podría estar relacionado con la exposición a los residuos transportados por los ríos. Por otra parte, la mayor abundancia de MP en la época seca podría deberse a una disminución en la dispersión por una menor entrada de agua al sistema, y al aumento de la densidad del agua, relacionado con el incremento en la salinidad, que favorece la flotabilidad de MP.

ABSTRACT Marine pollution caused by microplastics (MPs) in the ocean has been very high research in recent years, and their effects over different marine organisms such as zooplankton have been recognized. The crescent literature requires review and harmonization of the methodologies to unify criteria of comparison. Literature on microplastic ingestion in marine organisms is just beginning to be published, so it is of great importance to establish unified techniques for the extraction methodologies of microplastics ingested by zooplankton to determine the abundance and characteristics of MPs. Databases were used to find specific techniques for digestion of organic material from marine organisms, and four specific techniques were chosen for zooplankton degradation. Samples collected at one station in the Corales del Rosario and San Bernardo National Natural Park, Colombia were done. The chosen techniques were evaluated in four aspects: 1) The efficiency of digestions was evaluated on zooplankton samples, 2) The efficiency of digestion different duration and temperature conditions was assessed, 3) Evaluate the effect physics of digestions on microplastics, 4) Quantifying MPs from the ingestion rate. Fifty individuals were chosen from the sample to evaluate each technique. The most abundant groups corresponding to the families Paracalanidae, Corycaedae and Oncaeidae, and the phylum Chaetognatha were used. The best technique obtained was Md Amin et al (2020) with our modifications, this technique uses HNO3 65 % at 80 °C of temperature during one hour, in bottles of 2 mL lid with heat resistant. The organic matter was totally degraded, not changes on the physic integrity of MPs were observed, and the ingestion rates were similarly reported for other authors in these organisms.

RESUMEN Existe un incremento de publicaciones por conocer la problemática de la contaminación marina por microplásticos (MPs), donde ya se reconocen algunos de los efectos que pueden tener en el zooplancton. Este aumento de publicaciones requiere que se revisen las metodologías para unificar criterios de comparación, por lo que es de gran importancia unificar técnicas para las metodologías de extracción de los microplásticos ingeridos por el zooplancton para determinar la abundancia y las características de los MPs. A partir de una búsqueda en bases de datos, se escogieron cuatro técnicas específicas para la degradación de la materia orgánica representada por el zooplancton. Las técnicas fueron evaluadas en cuatro aspectos: 1) Eficiencia de la degradación de la materia orgánica, 2) Duración y condiciones de temperatura para el procesamiento, 3) Efecto físico de la digestión sobre los microplásticos, 4) cuantificar los MPs a partir de la tasa de ingestión. Se emplearon cincuenta individuos para cada uno de los grupos más abundantes correspondientes a las familias Paracalanidae, Corycaeidae y Oncaeidae, y al filo Chaetognatha. Los resultados obtenidos mostraron que la mejor técnica fue la de Md Amin et al (2020) con modificaciones, en la que no se observaron alteraciones en la integridad de los MPs y la tasa de ingestión fue similar a la que se reporta para estos organismos.

Resumen El plástico se ha vuelto muy popular en los últimos años gracias a su durabilidad y propiedades. A pesar de sus múltiples ventajas, la humanidad ha desarrollado cierta dependencia hacia este material, lo que ha propiciado un incremento en su uso y, a su vez, en la generación de desechos ante el escaso hábito de reúso. Uno de los polímeros plásticos más usados es el poliestireno (PS), ya que este se usa en una amplia gama de aplicaciones gracias a su bajo costo y fácil producción. Sin embargo, pasado el tiempo de vida útil de este plástico, es considerado como desecho. El PS al estar expuesto a condiciones atmosféricas como la radiación UV, se fragmenta dando como resultado la creación de microplásticos (MP), mismos que son pequeñas partículas que no sobrepasan los 5 mm, lo que representa una amenaza al medio ambiente pues, al degradarse, las propiedades decaen, se genera un cambio dimensional y, además, pueden ser fácilmente transportadas no solo al medio ambiente, sino también a los organismos. Este artículo de revisión se enfoca en evidenciar las principales rutas que siguen los MP al interaccionar con los seres humanos y los efectos potenciales de los PS-MP en el citoesqueleto, así como en resaltar la necesidad de más estudios al respecto.

Abstract Plastic has become very popular in recent years due to its durability and properties. Despite its many advantages, humanity has developed a certain dependence on this material, which represents an increase in its use and in turn, in waste. One of the most widely used plastic polymers is the polystyrene (PS), as is used in a wide range of applications due to its low cost and easy production, although after the useful life of the plastic, it is considered as waste. When plastic is exposure to atmospheric conditions such as UV radiation, it degrades and fragments giving rise to microplastics (MPs), which are defined as small particles that do not exceed 5 mm, representing a threat to the environment because when they degrade the properties decay, a dimensional change is generated and they can also be easily transported not only to the environment but also to organisms. This review article focuses on highlighting the main pathways that MPs follow when interacting with humans and the potential effects of PS-MPs on the cytoskeleton, as well as highlighting the need for more studies in this regard.

Abstract Currently, several industries have opted for the use of Cannabis sativa for different purposes, this time the capacity of the hemp stem fiber in conjunction with the Ralstonia eutropha bacterium for innovation of biodegradable plastics is highlighted, taking advantage of its potential for the generation of PHB (Polyhydroxybutyrate). This review article supports the analysis of sources such as scientific articles and research papers related to the artisanal and industrial manipulation of hemp fibers, as well as previous research regarding the production of PHA by the bacteria. The perspective is to develop a methodology with easily accessible resources in Colombia. The results show that the investigations carried out recently and the raw material is a good factor in economy, management, and progress; Additionally, different studies show that cassava is recognized as a great source of carbon that increases the potential for PHB production by the bacteria. It is concluded that its composting does not require third parties. Still, only the environment because of the power that Ralstonia eutropha has to produce PHB and that under conditions of physiological stress, it is capable of degrading, allowing to reduce the impact of the degradation of the material in the environment without contamination or residual microplastics.

Resumen Actualmente varias industrias de diversa índole han apostado por el uso de Cannabis sativa con diferentes fines, en esta ocasión se resalta la capacidad que tiene la fibra del tallo de cáñamo en conjunto con la bacteria Ralstonia eutropha para la generación de plásticos biodegradables, aprovechando su potencial para la generación de PHB (Polihidroxibutirato). En este artículo de revisión se sustenta el análisis de fuentes como artículos científicos y trabajos de investigación relacionados con la manipulación artesanal e industrial de las fibras de cáñamo, así como también investigaciones previas con respecto a la producción de PHA por parte de la bacteria Ralstonia eutropha. La perspectiva es desarrollar una metodología con recursos de fácil acceso en Colombia. Los resultados arrojan que las investigaciones realizadas recientemente y la materia prima son un buen factor en cuanto economía, manejo y progreso; adicionalmente diferentes estudios evidencian que la yuca se ha reconocido como una gran fuente de carbono que permite aumentar el potencial de producción de PHB por parte de la bacteria. Se concluye que su compostaje no requiera de terceros, solamente del ambiente gracias al poder que posee la Ralstonia eutropha de producir PHB, y que bajo condiciones de estrés fisiológico es capaz de degradarse completamente permitiendo disminuir el impacto de la descomposición del material en el medio ambiente, sin contaminaciones o microplásticos residuales.

ABSTRACT Microplastics are generated by the fragmentation of plastic that enters the oceans and is accidentally consumed by various species in the trophic chain. Otariids are considered bioindicators of the presence of microparticles in the environment; however, the level of impact in the coastal area of the Bio-bío region, Chile, is unknown. The aim of this work was to evaluate the presence of this polymer in faeces of sea lions (Otaria flavescenses), in the ‘La Poza’ sector, commune of Talcahuano, Bio-bío region. Stool samples were collected, freeze-dried, digested and subsequently filtered to identify microplastics. Microfibres of various colours were found, with a predominance of black. It is concluded that sea lions were indicators of the circulation of microplastics in their food chain in the sampling area.

RESUMEN Los microplásticos se generan por la fragmentación del plástico que ingresa a los océanos y es consumido accidentalmente por diversas especies que se encuentran en la cadena trófica. Los otáridos son considerados como bioindicadores de la presencia de micropartículas en el ambiente; sin embargo, se desconoce el nivel de afectación en la zona costera de la región del Bio-bío, Chile. El objetivo del presente trabajo fue evaluar la presencia de este polímero en heces de lobos marinos (Otaria flavescens), en el sector ‘La Poza’, comuna de Talcahuano, región del Bio-bío. Se tomaron muestras de heces que fueron liofilizadas, digeridas y posteriormente filtradas para identificar microplásticos. Se encontraron microfibras de varios colores, con predominio del color negro. Se concluye que los lobos marinos fueron indicadores de circulación de microplásticos en su cadena trófica en la zona de muestreo.

Abstract The presence of microplastics in aquatic environments has raised concerns about their abundance and potential hazards to aquatic organisms. This review provides insight into the problem that may be of alarm for freshwater fish. Plastic pollution is not confined to marine ecosystems; freshwater also comprises plastic bits, as the most of plastic fragments enter oceans via rivers. Microplastics (MPs) can be consumed by fish and accumulated due to their size and poor biodegradability. Furthermore, it has the potential to enter the food chain and cause health problems. Evidence of MPs s ingestion has been reported in >150 fish species from both freshwater and marine systems. However, microplastic quantification and toxicity in freshwater ecosystems have been underestimated, ignored, and not reported as much as compared to the marine ecosystem. However, their abundance, influence, and toxicity in freshwater biota are not less than in marine ecosystems. The interaction of MPs with freshwater fish, as well as the risk of human consumption, remains a mystery. Nevertheless, our knowledge of the impacts of MPs on freshwater fish is still very limited. This study detailed the status of the toxicity of MPs in freshwater fish. This review will add to our understanding of the ecotoxicology of microplastics on freshwater fish and give subsequent research directions. organisms bits rivers (MPs biodegradability Furthermore problems 150 >15 systems However underestimated ignored ecosystem influence consumption mystery Nevertheless limited directions 15 >1 1 >

Resumo A presença de microplásticos em ambientes aquáticos levantou preocupações sobre sua abundância e perigos potenciais para os organismos que vivem nesse meio. Esta revisão fornece informações sobre o problema que pode ser alarmante para os peixes de água doce. A poluição plástica não se limita aos ecossistemas marinhos; a água doce também contém pedaços de plástico, já que a maioria dos fragmentos de plástico entra nos oceanos por meio dos rios. Os microplásticos (MPs) podem ser consumidos pelos peixes e acumulados devido ao seu tamanho e baixa biodegradabilidade. Além disso, tem o potencial de entrar na cadeia alimentar e causar problemas de saúde. Evidências de ingestão de MPs foram relatadas em mais de 150 espécies de peixes de sistemas de água doce e marinhos. No entanto, a quantificação e a toxicidade de microplásticos em ecossistemas de água doce foram subestimadas, ignoradas e não relatadas tanto quanto em comparação com o ecossistema marinho. No entanto, sua abundância, influência e toxicidade na biota de água doce não são menores que nos ecossistemas marinhos. A interação de MPs com peixes de água doce, bem como o risco de consumo humano, permanece um mistério. Todavia, nosso conhecimento sobre os impactos das MPs em peixes de água doce ainda é muito limitado. Este estudo detalhou o status da toxicidade de MPs em peixes de água doce. Esta revisão aumentará nossa compreensão da ecotoxicologia de microplásticos em peixes de água doce e fornecerá direções de pesquisa subsequentes. marinhos rios (MPs biodegradabilidade disso saúde 15 entanto subestimadas marinho humano mistério Todavia limitado subsequentes 1

Resumo Contaminação por microplásticos (MPs) é um impacto bem estabelecido nos oceanos, embora sejam escassos enfoques combinando análises simultâneas dos componentes bióticos e abióticos. Este estudo foi direcionado para esta lacuna, demonstrando a ingestão de MPs por Atherinella brasiliensis (espécie de peixe) e comparando com a presença do contaminante na água e sedimento. Três praias de Ubatuba (exposta, calma e estuário abrigado) foram amostradas para os componentes peixe, água e sedimento durante o verão e o inverno. Dados ambientais evidenciaram diferenças espaciais e sazonais (ACP/ANOVA). A presença de partículas sintéticas (PSs) em peixes foi alta (~38%). Concentrações máximas ocorreram no estuário, para água (490 PSs/m³), e na praia exposta, para sedimento (62 PSs/50g). O formato fibra predominou em todos os componentes. Preferência dos peixes pela cor azul parece ocorrer. Relações estatísticas significativas foram determinadas para comprimento dos peixes e tamanho das PSs e entre concentrações de PSs na água e nos peixes. As identidades químicas (μ-FTIR spectra), polipropileno, polietileno, poliamida, poliéster e celulose/papelão predominaram. Influências da hidrodinâmica local (e.g., tamanhos das PSs) e da redução do turismo durante a epidemia de Covid-19 (e.g., menos PSs no verão) são discutidas. Este estudo confirma a contaminação por PSs (a maioria MPs) nas praias de Ubatuba, afetando os peixes através da ingestão direta na coluna d’água. Ações urgentes por parte das autoridades e mudanças de hábitos dos usuários locais são cruciais. (MPs oceanos abióticos lacuna espécie peixe exposta (exposta abrigado inverno ACP/ANOVA. ACPANOVA ACP/ANOVA . ACP ANOVA (ACP/ANOVA) (PSs ~38%. 38 ~38% (~38%) 490 (49 PSs/m³, PSsm³ PSsm PSs/m³ , m³ m PSs/m³) 62 (6 PSs/50g. PSs50g PSsg PSs/50g 50g g PSs/50g) ocorrer μFTIR μ FTIR spectra, spectra spectra) polipropileno polietileno poliamida celulosepapelão celulose papelão predominaram e.g., eg (e.g. Covid19 Covid 19 Covid-1 discutidas dágua. dágua d água. d’água cruciais (ACP/ANOVA 3 ~38 (~38% 49 (4 PSs/m 6 ( e.g. (e.g Covid1 1 Covid- ~3 (~38 4 e.g ~ (~3 (~

Abstract Microplastics (MPs) contamination is a well-established impact in oceans, but integrated approaches combining simultaneous analyzes of biotic and abiotic components are scarce. This study addresses this gap, demonstrating Atherinella brasiliensis (fish species) ingestion of MPs and comparing with the contaminant presence in water and sediment. Three Ubatuba beaches (exposed, calm and sheltered estuary) were surveyed for fish, water, and sediment components in summer and winter. Environmental data evidenced spatial and seasonal differences (PCA/ANOVA). Presence of synthetic particles (SPs) in fish was high (~38%). Maximum concentrations occurred in the estuary, for water (490 SPs/m³), and in the exposed beach, for sediment (62 SPs/50g). Fibers format predominated in all components. Fish preference for blue color seems to occur. Significant statistical relationships were determined for fish length and SPs size and between SPs concentrations in water and fish. The chemical identities (μ-FTIR spectra) polypropylene, polyethylene, polyamide, polyester, and cardboard/cellulose predominated. Influences of local hydrodynamics (e.g., SPs sizes) and reduction in tourism during Covid-19 epidemic (e.g.,less SPs in summer) are discussed. This study confirms environmental contamination by SPs (mostly MPs) in Ubatuba beaches, affecting fish through direct water column ingestion. Urgent actions from authorities and changes in local user’s habits are crucial. (MPs wellestablished well established oceans scarce gap species exposed, (exposed estuary winter PCA/ANOVA. PCAANOVA PCA/ANOVA . PCA ANOVA (PCA/ANOVA) (SPs ~38%. 38 ~38% (~38%) 490 (49 SPs/m³, SPsm³ SPsm SPs/m³ , m³ m SPs/m³) beach 62 (6 SPs/50g. SPs50g SPsg SPs/50g 50g g SPs/50g) occur μFTIR μ FTIR spectra polypropylene polyethylene polyamide polyester cardboardcellulose cardboard cellulose e.g., eg e (e.g. sizes Covid19 Covid 19 Covid-1 e.g.,less egless less discussed mostly users user s crucial (PCA/ANOVA 3 ~38 (~38% 49 (4 SPs/m 6 ( e.g. (e.g Covid1 1 Covid- ~3 (~38 4 e.g ~ (~3 (~

Abstract Wildlife roadkill surveys in Brazil often focus on birds, as they are one of the main groups affected by road accidents. In addition roadkill, anthropogenic litter also contributes to a significant number of bird fatalities every year. The present study aimed to investigate the stomach contents and possible contamination by inorganic material of birds killed on a federal highway that crosses the Serra de Itabaiana National Park in the state of Sergipe, Brazil. Monitoring and data collection were carried out from January to June 2022, with a motorcycle at an average speed of 60 km/h. The collected animals were transported to the Institute of Technology and Research, located at the Tiradentes University, Sergipe, Brazil, and a plastic material was identified. The plastic material found was subjected to Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), which showed a similar wavenumber to a polymer in the polypropylene chain, very common in plastic packaging. The presence of plastics and metals in the intestinal contents of Caracara plancus and Crotophaga ani is noteworthy, as they have a greater tendency to ingest plastics due to their generalist diet. Plastic contamination in Progne chalybea and Nyctidromus albicollis probably occurred through bioaccumulation, from the consumption of insects contaminated by microplastics. accidents year Sergipe 2022 6 kmh km h km/h Research University identified FTIR, FTIR , (FTIR) chain packaging noteworthy diet bioaccumulation microplastics 202 (FTIR 20 2

Resumo As pesquisas sobre atropelamentos de animais silvestres no Brasil geralmente se concentram nas aves, pois elas são um dos principais grupos afetados por acidentes rodoviários. Além dos atropelamentos, o lixo antropogênico também contribui para um número significativo de mortes de aves todos os anos. O presente estudo teve como objetivo investigar o conteúdo estomacal e possível contaminação por material inorgânico de aves atropeladas em uma rodovia federal que atravessa o Parque Nacional da Serra de Itabaiana, no estado de Sergipe, Brasil. O monitoramento e a coleta de dados foram realizados no período de janeiro a junho de 2022, com uma motocicleta a uma velocidade média de 60 km/h. Os animais coletados foram transportados para o Instituto de Tecnologia e Pesquisa situado na Universidade Tiradentes, Sergipe, Brasil, onde foi identificado um material plástico. O material plástico encontrado foi submetido à espectroscopia no infravermelho com transformada de Fourier (FTIR), que mostrou número de onda semelhante a um polímero da cadeia do polipropileno, muito comum em embalagens plásticas. Chama a atenção a presença de plásticos e metais no conteúdo intestinal de Caracara plancus e Crotophaga ani, pois apresentam maior tendência à ingestão de plásticos devido à dieta generalista. A contaminação plástica em Progne chalybea e Nyctidromus albicollis provavelmente ocorreu por bioacumulação, a partir do consumo de insetos contaminados por microplásticos. rodoviários anos Itabaiana Sergipe 2022 6 kmh km h km/h Tiradentes FTIR, FTIR , (FTIR) polipropileno plásticas ani generalista bioacumulação microplásticos 202 (FTIR 20 2

Abstract Microplastics (MPs) are emerging pollutants that may affect the aquatic life, including fish, raised in aquaculture. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of biodegradable-MPs mixed in canola meal based diet on the growth performance, body composition, nutrient digestibility and gut content of grass carp fingerlings. For this purpose, six canola meal based diets were prepared including one control diet (without addition of MPs) and five other diets containing 1%, 3%, 5%, 7% and 9% MPs. 270 fingerlings were fed twice for 60 days at a rate of 5% of their wet weight. Effect of each treatment on the weight gain, feed conversion ratio (FCR), nutrient digestibility, gut performance and body composition was calculated by standard procedures. Highest value for growth, nutrient digestibility and no damage to gut was observed in fish fed control diet. Results showed that there was significant decrease (P<0.05) in growth and increase in FCR in fish fed 9% biodegradable-MPs added diet. Nutrient digestibility and body composition of grass carp was highly affected by microplastics. Microplastics also caused severe damage to gut of fish including, tissue damage, vacuolization and necrosis of enterocytes. MPs (MPs life aquaculture biodegradableMPs biodegradable without 1 1% 3 3% 5 7 9 27 6 gain FCR, , (FCR) procedures P<0.05 P005 P 0 05 (P<0.05 microplastics enterocytes 2 (FCR P<0.0 P00 (P<0.0 P<0. P0 (P<0. P<0 (P<0 P< (P< (P

Abstract Around the globe, plastic has been entering the aquatic system and is ingested by organisms. Identification, optimal digestion method, and characterization of the polymers to trace sources are of growing importance. Hence, the present work investigated microplastics accumulation, digestion protocol efficiency, and characterization of polymers with FTIR analysis in the guts of five fishes (Lethrinus nebulosus, Rastrelliger kanagurta, Acanthopagrus arabicus, Otolithes ruber, and Euryglossa orientalis) from the Karachi coastal area, Arabian Sea. A total of 1154 microplastics (MPs) were ingested by 29 out of 33 fish species (87%). The highest average MP/fish was recorded in Otolithes ruber (54) and the lowest in Rastrelliger kanagurta (19.42). Microfibers were the most abundant shape with the highest numbers (35.52%) as compared to the rest of the MPs identified. Transparent microfibers were recorded as the highest in numbers followed by red, black, blue, and green. In this study, KOH with different concentrations and exposure times along with oxidizing agent hydrogen peroxide was tested (Protocols 3 and 4). Results showed these bases were highly efficient in obtaining optimal digestion of the samples. FTIR analysis confirmed that the majority of the polymers found in the fish guts were polyethylene and polypropylene. This study validated for the first time the presence of these polymers of plastic in marine fish from Pakistan. globe organisms Identification method importance Hence accumulation efficiency Lethrinus nebulosus arabicus orientalis area Sea 115 (MPs 2 87%. 87 87% . (87%) MPfish MP 54 (54 19.42. 1942 19.42 19 42 (19.42) 35.52% 3552 35 52 (35.52% identified red black blue green Protocols 4. 4 4) samples polypropylene Pakistan 11 8 (87% 5 (5 194 19.4 1 (19.42 35.52 355 (35.52 (87 ( 19. (19.4 35.5 (35.5 (8 (19. 35. (35. (19 (35 (1 (3

Resumo Em todo o mundo, o plástico tem entrado no sistema aquático e tem sido ingerido por organismos. A identificação, o método de digestão ideal e a caracterização dos polímeros para rastrear fontes são de crescente importância. Portanto, o presente trabalho investigou o acúmulo de microplásticos, a eficiência do protocolo de digestão e a caracterização de polímeros com análise de FTIR nos tratos digestivos de cinco peixes (Lethrinus nebulosus, Rastrelliger kanagurta, Acanthopagrus arabicus, Otolithes ruber e Euryglossa orientalis) do litoral de Karachi, no mar Arábico. Um total de 1154 microplásticos (MP) foram ingeridos por 29 das 33 espécies de peixes (87%) estudadas. A maior média MP/peixe foi registrada no Otolithes ruber (54), e a menor no Rastrelliger kanagurta (19,42). As microfibras foram a forma mais abundante e com os maiores números (35,52%), em comparação ao restante das MPs identificadas. As microfibras transparentes foram detectadas em maior número, seguidas por vermelho, preto, azul e verde. Neste estudo, o KOH foi testado em diferentes concentrações e tempos de exposição, juntamente com o agente oxidante peróxido de hidrogênio (Protocolos 3 e 4). Os resultados mostraram que essas bases foram altamente eficientes para a obtenção de digestão ideal das amostras. A análise de FTIR confirmou que a maioria dos polímeros encontrados nos tratos digestivos dos peixes eram polietileno e polipropileno. Este estudo validou pela primeira vez a presença desses polímeros de plástico em peixes marinhos do Paquistão. mundo organismos identificação importância Portanto Lethrinus nebulosus arabicus orientalis Karachi Arábico 115 MP (MP 2 87% 87 (87% estudadas MPpeixe peixe 54, 54 , (54) 19,42. 1942 19,42 . 19 42 (19,42) 35,52%, 3552 35,52% 35 52 (35,52%) identificadas número vermelho preto verde exposição Protocolos 4. 4 4) amostras polipropileno Paquistão 11 8 (87 5 (54 194 19,4 1 (19,42 355 35,52 (35,52% (8 (5 19, (19,4 35,5 (35,52 ( (19, 35, (35,5 (19 (35, (1 (35 (3

Resumo O objetivo básico deste estudo foi determinar a diversidade ictiofaunística do rio Panjkora nos distritos de Lower e Upper de Dir, na província de Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, no Paquistão. Amostras de peixes foram coletadas com redes de arrasto de março a setembro de 2020. Foram coletados 724 espécimes, classificados em 5 famílias, 14 gêneros e 18 espécies. Os resultados gerais revelaram que a maioria da ictiofauna do rio Panjkora contém 8 espécies da família Cyprinidae (56,49%), seguidas por 4 espécies de Nemacheilidae (24,44%), 2 espécies de Channidae (10,63%) e Sisoridae (7,04%) e 1 espécie de Mastacembelidae (1,38%). Entre todas as espécies de peixes, Schizothorax plagiostomus (16,57%) foi altamente predominante, seguida por Carassius auratus (11,87%) e Racoma labiata (9,66%), e elas foram relatadas como altamente abundantes, especialmente nos meses de abril, maio e junho. As espécies menos abundantes foram Glyptothorax punjabensis, Glyptothorax sufii e Mastacembelus armatus, que constituíram 2,48%, 2,20% e 1,38%, respectivamente, do total de peixes amostrados. O índice de diversidade de Simpson (1-D = 0,919), o índice recíproco de Simpson (1/D = 12,3876) e o índice de Shannon (H = 2,68) indicaram que o rio Panjkora contém um grupo bastante rico e diversificado de espécies de peixes. Os microplásticos mais altos foram observados no local 7 em comparação com outra área de estudo. Medidas de conservação devem ser tomadas como prioridade máxima para proteger e conservar o ambiente marinho e o patrimônio natural de novas perdas e extinção e para parar ou minimizar as perdas ocorridas por práticas de pesca irresponsáveis.

Abstract The basic aim of this study was aimed to determine the ichthyofaunal diversity of River Panjkora in both upper and lower Dir districts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan.Fish samples were collected by using fishnets from March to September 2020. A total of 724 specimens were collected and classified into 5 families, 14 genera, and 18 species. The overall results revealed that most fish fauna of river Panjkora contains 8 species of family Cyprinidae (56.49%) followed by 4 species of Nemacheilidae (24.44%), 2 species of Channidae (10.63%), and Sisoridae (7.04%), and 1 species of Mastacembelidae (1.38%), respectively. Among all kinds of fish species, Schizothorax plagiostomus (16.57%) was highly dominated and followed by Carassius auratus (11.87%) and Racoma labiata (9.66%) and were reported as highly abundant, especially during April, May, and June. The least abundant species were Glyptothorax punjabensis, Glyptothorax sufii, and Mastacembelus armatus, that constituting 2.48%, 2.20%, and 1.38% of the total fish samples. The Overall Simpson’s diversity (1-D= 0.919) and Simpson’s Reciprocal index values (1/D= 12.3876), and Shannon’s index (H= 2.68) were indicating that river Panjkora contains a quite rich and diverse group of fish species. The highest microplastics observed in site 7 compared to other study area. Conservation steps should be taken as a top priority to protect and conserve the marine environment and natural heritage from further loss, extinction and stop or minimize losses incurred through irresponsible fishery practices

Resumen: Rodeado de Estados con diferentes realidades sociales, económicas, políticas y medioambientales, el mar Mediterráneo es una región cuya biodiversidad está gravemente amenazada por los desechos marinos de plástico. Partiendo del análisis de los principales instrumentos internacionales y europeos, este estudio examina la legislación aprobada por España en 2018 y 2019 para transponer las directivas europeas de residuos y su eficacia en la lucha contra la contaminación por residuos plásticos y la preservación del mar Mediterráneo, tras las transposiciones de las principales directivas sobre residuos editadas por la Unión Europea entre 2018 y 2019. Se concluye que, aunque existe un marco con buenas intenciones para proteger el medio marino, parece que las acciones serán insuficientes para alcanzar los objetivos propuestos y recuperar el buen estado medioambiental de la región mediterránea.

Abstract: Surrounded by countries with different social, economic, political, and environmental realities, the Mediterranean Sea is a region whose biodiversity is seriously threatened by plastic marine waste. This study, starting from the analysis of key international and European instruments, examines the legislation adopted by Spain in 2018 and 2019 to transpose European waste directives and its effectiveness in combating plastic waste pollution and preserving the Mediterranean Sea, following the transposition of major waste directives issued by the European Union between 2018 and 2019. The conclusion is that, although there exists a well-intentioned framework to protect the marine environment, it appears that the actions taken will be insufficient to achieve the proposed objectives and restore the environmental health of the Mediterranean region.

Resumo: Cercado por Estados com diferentes realidades sociais, econômicas, políticas e ambientais, o Mar Mediterrâneo é uma região cuja biodiversidade está seriamente ameaçada pelo lixo marinho de plástico. Partindo da análise dos principais instrumentos internacionais e europeus, este estudo examina a legislação aprovada pela Espanha em 2018 e 2019 para transpor as diretivas europeias sobre resíduos e a sua eficácia na luta contra a contaminação por resíduos plásticos e na preservação do Mar Mediterrâneo, após as transposições das principais diretivas sobre resíduos editadas pela União Europeia entre 2018 e 2019. Conclui-se que, embora exista um fundamento com boas intenções para proteger o ambiente marinho, parece que as ações serão insuficientes para alcançar os objetivos propostos e recuperar o bom estado ambiental da região mediterrânea.

Resumen Introducción: La contaminación por microplásticos es un problema global en los ecosistemas marinos, con impacto sobre microorganismos y ecosistemas en varios niveles espaciales. Las playas arenosas son ambientes de deposición donde se tiende a acumular gran cantidad de microplásticos. La co-ocurrencia de meiofauna intersticial y microplásticos en granos de arena plantea la pregunta de que si la acumulación de microplásticos en sedimentos afecta la abundancia y composición de comunidades de meiofauna. Objetivo: Probar la hipótesis de que microplásticos afectan la meiofauna de playas arenosas urbanas. Métodos: Estudiamos las tres principales playas arenosas urbanas de Santa Marta, Colombia: El Rodadero, Bahía Santa Marta y Taganga. Estas son similares en morfología y presiones externas, y difieren de las otras playas de la región. En abril 2019 recolectamos 81 muestras de arena, distribuidas de manera equidistante en la zona intermareal (nivel intermareal superior, medio y bajo). Aplicamos modelos lineales generalizados de abundancia, y pruebas permutacionales multivariantes a la composición de comunidades. Resultados: Identificamos 17 grupos taxonómicos de meiofauna, y partículas de microplástico (principalmente fibras de 45-500 micras) distribuidos equitativamente a lo largo de las playas y niveles intermareales. Hubo más meiofauna en el nivel intermareal medio, y en sedimentos de grano mediano y fino. A niveles intermareales más bajos, sitios con más microplásticos tuvieron menos meiofauna. La abundancia de los microplásticos explicó el 39 % de la variación en comunidades de meiofauna a niveles intermareales bajos. Conclusión: La acumulación de microplásticos podría tener un impacto negativo sobre las comunidades de meiofauna intersticial. Esto no es de sorprender: si los microplásticos ocupan el mismo volumen físico que estos animales, estos podrían presuntamente modificar la estructura de sedimentos y la composición del agua intersticial.

Abstract Introduction: Pollution by microplastics is a global problem in marine environments, which impacts microorganisms and ecosystems at several spatial levels. Sandy beaches are depositional environments where microplastics tend to accumulate in large quantities. The co-occurrence of interstitial meiofauna and microplastics in sand grains raises the question on whether the accumulation of microplastics in the sediments affects the abundance and composition of the meiofaunal communities. Objective: To test the hypothesis that microplastics affect the meiofauna of urban sandy beaches. Methods: We studied the three main urban sandy beaches of Santa Marta, Colombia: El Rodadero, Santa Marta Bay, and Taganga. All are similar in morphology and external pressures, and differ from other beaches in the region. In April 2019 we collected 81 sand samples, equally distributed in the intertidal zone (upper, mid, and lower intertidal levels). We applied generalized linear models to abundance, and multivariate permutational tests to community composition. Results: We identified 17 taxonomic groups of meiofauna, and microplastic particles (mainly 45-500 micron fibres) evenly distributed across beaches and intertidal levels. There was more meiofauna at the mid intertidal level, and in fine and medium grain sediment. At the lower intertidal level, sites with more microplastics had less meiofauna. Abundance of microplastics explained 39 % of the variation in meiofaunal community composition at lower intertidal levels. Conclusions: The accumulation of microplastics might have a negative impact on these meiofaunal interstitial communities. This is not surprising: if microplastics occupy the same physical space as these animals, they might presumably modify the structure of sediments and the composition of interstitial water.

Resumen Introducción: La creciente presencia de plásticos en los ecosistemas acuáticos ha sido considerada como un problema ambiental emergente global. Existen estudios que han demostrado que los microplásticos pueden ser ingeridos por una variedad de organismos acuáticos. La variabilidad natural e importancia del recurso sardina, son razones suficientes para evaluar la presencia de estas partículas en el contenido estomacal, y así generar información acerca de las implicaciones de ingestión de estos contaminantes emergentes. Objetivo: Evaluar la presencia de microplásticos en el contenido estomacal de la sardina y su correlación con la condición fisiológica y reproductiva de los peces estudiados. Metodología: Se evaluaron un total de 800 sardinas, entre abril y mayo del 2022. Se midieron las variables morfométricas longitud total y peso, se determinó el factor de condición y el índice gonadosomático. Se extrajo el tracto digestivo y se determinó el peso del estómago lleno y vacío, además del peso del contenido estomacal para determinar el índice de repleción y vacuidad. Las variables determinadas se correlacionaron con la abundancia de microplásticos. El contenido estomacal fue procesado para extraer los microplásticos y caracterizarlos de forma física. Resultados: El índice de repleción presentó diferencias mensuales; su promedio fue de 0.311. El índice de vacuidad promedio fue de 0.276. La abundancia de microplásticos promedio fue 3 066 ítems, con diferencias mensuales e interacción con respecto al sexo y una frecuencia de aparición de 70.125 %, con un total de 2 402 fibras y 57 fragmentos. Las fibras negras fueron las más abundantes (947 ítems). Encontramos correlaciones bajas y positivas entre la abundancia de microplásticos, el índice gonadosomático y el peso de los organismos. Conclusiones: Estos resultados no pueden ser concluyente con respecto a las consecuencias causadas por este contaminante emergente. Mas estudios son necesarios, incluyendo ensayos de laboratorios con metodologías estandarizadas.

Abstract Introduction: The increasing presence of plastics in aquatic ecosystems has been considered as an emerging global environmental problem. Studies have shown that microplastics can be ingested by a variety of aquatic organisms. The natural variability and importance of the sardine resource are sufficient reasons to evaluate the presence of these particles in stomach contents, and thus generate information about the ingestion implications of these emerging contaminants. Objective: To evaluate the presenc e of microplastics in the stomach contents of sardines and their correlation with the physiological and reproductive condition of the fish studied. Methodology: We evaluated a total of 800 sardines between April and May 2022. We measured total length and weight, and determined the condition factor and the gonadosomatic index. We removed the digestive tract and weighed the stomach both empty and full, as well as the stomach contents to determine the repletion and emptiness index. We correlated the determined variables with the abundance of microplastics. We extracted microplastics and characterized them physically. Results: The filling index presented monthly differences with an average of 0.311. The average vacancy index was 0.276. The average abundance of microplastics was 3 066 items, with monthly differences and interaction with respect to sex and a frequency of appearance of 70.125 %, with a total of 2 402 fibers and 57 fragments. Black fibers were the most abundant (947 items). Low and positive correlations were found between the abundance of microplastics, the gonadosomatic index and the weight of the organisms. Conclusions: These results cannot be conclusive as to the consequences caused by this emerging pollutant. Further study is necessary, including laboratory tests with standardized methodologies.