We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Microplastic Pollution in Shoreline Sediments of the Vondo Reservoir Along the Mutshindudi River, South Africa
Summary
This study assessed microplastic contamination in the shoreline sediments of a reservoir in South Africa's Limpopo province, finding plastic particles in all samples collected across different seasons. Fiber shapes dominated the samples, pointing to textile-related sources, and concentrations varied with seasonal water flow patterns. The research provides baseline data for a region where microplastic monitoring is still limited, highlighting how inland freshwater reservoirs accumulate and trap microplastics transported by rivers.
Rivers are recognized as significant pathways and transportation for microplastics (MPs), an emerging contaminant, to aquatic environments. However, there is limited evidence on how riverine reservoirs influence MPs transport. To fill this gap and provide baseline empirical data and insights to South African context, the current study assessed the seasonal variation in MP densities from sediments collected upstream, within the reservoir, and downstream of the Vondo Reservoir along the Mutshindudi River. We hypothesised that MP densities would be highest within the reservoir, due to the lack of constant flow that would otherwise transport accumulated particles downriver. Additionally, we expected the cool–dry season to be associated with the highest MP densities. As expected, high MP densities were observed within the reservoir (117.38–277.46 particles kg−1 dwt) when compared to the downstream (72.63–141.50 particles kg−1 dwt) and upstream (28.81–91.63 particles kg−1 dwt) sites of the reservoir. The cool–dry season (91.63–277.46 particles kg−1 dwt) exhibited the highest MP densities compared to the hot–wet season (28.81–141.50 particles kg−1 dwt). However, MP densities downstream the reservoir were higher during the hot–wet season (141.50 ± 24.34 particles kg−1 dwt) compared to the cool–dry season (72.63 ± 48.85 particles kg−1 dwt). The most dominant MP particles identified were white, transparent, and black fibres/filaments composed primarily of polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE). This suggests diverse sources of MP particles. No significant correlations were found between water parameters and MP densities across sampling sites and seasons, indicating a widespread and context-independent presence of MPs. These findings contribute to MP studies in freshwater environments and further reinforce the role of sediments as sink for MPs and suggest that riverine reservoirs similar to dams can trap MPs, which may then be remobilized downstream during high-flow periods. Importantly, the results of this study can support local municipalities in implementing targeted plastic pollution mitigation strategies and public awareness campaigns, particularly because the Vondo Reservoir serves as a critical water resource for surrounding communities.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Seasonal occurrence of microplastics in sediment of two South African recreational reservoirs
Researchers tracked seasonal microplastic levels in sediments from two recreational reservoirs in South Africa, one near agricultural land and the other near populated areas. They found microplastics at all sites, with significantly higher concentrations near areas of greater human activity, particularly during the hot-dry season. The study highlights that even inland freshwater systems in regions with relatively low industrial presence are not immune to microplastic pollution.
Microplastic occurrence and densities in small subtropical reservoirs of Southern Africa
Researchers measured microplastic levels across seasons in small reservoirs in southern Africa, finding that microplastic concentrations were higher during the dry season and in reservoirs near areas with greater human activity. The study establishes baseline data for a region where plastic pollution research is scarce and warns that contamination could worsen without targeted intervention.
Microplastic abundance, distribution, and diversity in water and sediments along a subtropical river system
Researchers investigated microplastic abundance in water and sediments along a subtropical river system in South Africa, finding widespread contamination with fibers as the dominant shape and polyethylene as the most common polymer type.
Assessing microplastic characteristics and abundance in the sediment and surface water of the Diep River, Western Cape, South Africa
Researchers investigated microplastic pollution in the Diep River in South Africa's Western Cape, analyzing both water and sediment samples from five locations. Fibers were the most dominant microplastic shape at all sites, with polyethylene and polystyrene being the most common polymer types. The study found that tourist and recreational areas had higher microplastic contamination than non-tourist areas.
Microplastic Abundance and Sources in Surface Water Samples of the Vaal River, South Africa
Researchers surveyed microplastic contamination in the surface waters of the Vaal River in South Africa, finding microplastics present at every sampling site. The particles were predominantly fragments and fibers smaller than one millimeter, identified as polyethylene and polypropylene from secondary sources such as single-use plastics and textiles. The findings highlight growing concerns about microplastic pollution in South African freshwater systems and its potential effects on aquatic life.