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Assess the microplastic prevalence and characterization in bivalve (Lamellidens marginalis): implications for freshwater ecosystems and human health
Summary
Researchers analyzed microplastic contamination in 373 freshwater mussels from West Bengal, India, finding an average of 3.76 MPs per gram in gastrointestinal tissue and 1.48 MPs per gram in muscle tissue, with red and black fibers most common and polymer types confirmed via Raman spectroscopy, highlighting implications for food safety and ecosystem health.
Pioneer research work is designed to assess the characterization of microplastic pollution in Lamellidens marginalis, freshwater bivalve, from Jhargram district of West Bengal, India. Bivalves, known as their ecological and economical importance, also act as bioindicator for various environmental contaminates like MPs and heavy metals. A total of 373 bivalve samples, with body weights ranging from 24 to 58 g and lengths between 4.5 and 8 cm, were analyzed. The average MP concentration in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and muscle tissue was found to be 3.76 and 1.48 MPs/gm respectively. MPs were categorized by color primarily red, black, blue, green and white in decreasing order of frequency and by size ranging from 50 to 1000 μm, categorised into 50–100, 101–200, 201–300, 301–500, and 501–1000 μm groups. Morphotypes were identified including fibers, fragments and sheets in decreasing manner. Stereo microscopy and Raman micro-spectroscopy analysis revealed the highest MP abundance in study site III (SIII) and the lowest in SV, with notable spatial variation in the physical and chemical properties of MPs. This study is in unique in nature due to its comprehensiveness, particularly on polymer types, physical and chemical characteristics of microplastic. Findings of the present investigation will help for effective management strategies of microplastic pollution in near future.