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Microplastics and anthropogenic debris in the Pacific oyster (Magallana gigas) from the southern Buenos Aires coast, Southwest Atlantic
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Researchers documented the first baseline data on microplastic contamination in wild Pacific oysters from Argentina's southern Buenos Aires coast, finding 346 particles in 145 individuals dominated by microfibers and identifying polymer types including polyacrylates and thermoplastic polyesters — raising food-safety concerns for a locally consumed species.
We present the first analysis of microplastic (MP) occurrence in wild, non-native oysters (Magallana gigas) from a population consumed by humans on the southern coast of Buenos Aires, Argentina. Samples were collected from diverse locations, including commercial and military harbours, oil transport facilities, and industrial and recreational beaches. Following collection, the oysters underwent tissue digestion (30% HO) and filtration (GF/F, 47 mm, 0.7 μm pore). Microplastic particles were examined using a Nikon SM-Z1500 lens and identified via Perkin Elmer micro-FTIR spectroscopy. Analysis of 145 individuals revealed 346 MP particles, with an average size of 1226.17 ± 47.73 μm. While microfibres were the dominant morphology, µFTIR analysis identified the polymers as polyacrylates, thermoplastic polyesters, styrene/isoprene block copolymers (SIS), and other anthropogenic materials. This study provides the first baseline data on MP contamination in wild oysters from a significant environmental region of the Western South Atlantic coastline, underscoring implications for food security and potential human health risks.
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Researchers assessed microplastic contamination in sediments, water, and two species of edible mussels at a popular beach in Argentina. They found microplastics in all samples at levels comparable to other human-impacted coastal areas worldwide, with fibers being the most common type. The study raises concerns about human exposure to microplastics through consuming locally harvested shellfish.
Microplastic Concentrations in Crassotrea gigas: Establishing a Baseline of Microplastic Contamination in Oregon’s Oyster Aquacultures
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This study established baseline levels of microplastic contamination in Pacific oysters (Crassostrea gigas) grown for human consumption in a coastal aquaculture operation. Establishing baselines is essential for tracking changes in contamination over time and assessing the human health implications of eating contaminated shellfish.
First multi-compartment approach to microplastics in an urbanized estuary of Argentina: The case of Magallana gigas
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This first multi-compartment study of microplastics in the Bahia Blanca estuary, Argentina, simultaneously measured microplastic contamination in water, sediment, and two tissue types from the oyster Magallana gigas across three sites. Microplastics were detected in all compartments, with pollution load index analysis revealing elevated risk at sites nearest to urban and industrial activity.
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