We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Microplastic occurrence in 21 coastal marine fish species from fishing communities on Viti Levu, Fiji
Summary
Researchers analyzed microplastic ingestion in 184 fish from 21 species across three coastal communities in Fiji and found microplastics in 74% of fish examined. Fibers were the most common particle type at 66%, with polyethylene and polypropylene the dominant polymers. This dataset, the largest of its kind for Fiji, establishes a critical baseline for monitoring plastic pollution in the region's coastal fishing grounds.
Microplastic contamination in fish is a growing concern in Fiji's marine ecosystems, yet comprehensive data across diverse species and fishing grounds remain scarce. This study analyses microplastic ingestion in 184 fish from 21 species across three Viti Levu communities (Galoa, Silana, Yadua). Microplastics were found in 74 % of fish, with 399 particles identified: fibers (66 %), fragments (20 %), and films (14 %). Dominant polymers included polyethylene (20 %), polypropylene (19 %), polyethylene terephthalate (18 %), nylon (16 %), and nitrile (8 %). The average concentration (2.17 ± 0.16 particles/individual (mean ± standard error)) was lower than in urbanized Fijian regions, but occurrence frequency was higher. Species-level variations in microplastic presence and particle characteristics highlight contamination risks in coastal fishing grounds. This dataset, the largest of its kind for Fiji, establishes a critical baseline for monitoring plastic pollution, supporting sustainable fisheries management and regional mitigation strategies.