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Distribution of Microplastic Pollution in Skadar Lake within the National Park of Montenegro
Summary
The first assessment of microplastic pollution in Skadar Lake sediments in Montenegro found MPs in all samples (average 15.4 particles/100g dry sediment), with fibers and polyethylene/polypropylene dominant and pollution load index values indicating low but measurable ecological risk. Establishing baseline contamination data in protected freshwater ecosystems like national park lakes is essential for monitoring future pollution trends and protecting biodiversity.
This study investigates, for the first time, the abundance, composition, distribution, sources, and ecological risks of microplastics (MPs) in the shore sediments of Skadar Lake in Montenegro. MPs were detected in all sediment samples, with their presence varying by sampling site and season. The MP abundances, measured as particles per 100 g of dry sediment, ranged from 9–22, with an average of 15.4 ± 4.3. The identified MP shapes included fibers, fragments, and films, with fibers (41%), sizes 1–3 mm (33.3%), and the color blue (31.9%) being the most dominant. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) analysis revealed polyethylene and polypropylene as the primary polymers. The pollution load index (PLI) and polymer hazard index (PHI) were used to assess sediment quality. PLI values indicated a low level of MP pollution in the sediments of Skadar Lake, suggesting a minor ecological risk. High PHI values were noted due to the presence of MPs with high-hazard score polymers. This study lays the groundwork for future monitoring and a better understanding of MP pollution, distribution, and potential sources in freshwater ecosystems. Our findings could support the implementation of preventive measures to reduce MP pollution in Skadar Lake, which is part of the National Park of Montenegro.