Tracing microplastics in marine fish: Ecological threats and human exposure in the Bay of Bengal

This research on microplastics (MPs) in marine environments, particularly in Bay of Bengal fish, underscores the limited comprehension of their accumulation and potential health and environmental consequences. The study investigated the abundance of MPs in the organs of nine marine fish species from the north Bay of Bengal, assessing their polymeric risks and implications for human health. The average MPs ingested by each individual was 32.9 ± 3.0 items/ind.10 g predominantly fibers (93.1 %), followed by fragments (6.1 %), with black being the most common color (76.3 %). The primary polymers identified were polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) (19.4 %), polyether sulfone (PES) (10.7 %), polyamide PA (8.7 %), acrylic, and polyethylene (PE), in the 500-5000 (80 %) μm size range. A moderate negative correlation with strong statistical significance was found with girth sizes and MPs concentration of average (Pearson's r = -0.5728, p < 0.0001). Body weight exhibited moderate negative correlations with MPs abundance in fish tissues (Pearson's r = -0.4701, p < 0.0001). Movement behavior analysis showed a negative correlation between MPs in fish tissues and depth range (Pearson's r = -0.4231, p < 0.0001). Demersal species contained more MPs than pelagic species, and carnivorous fishes had higher MPs levels than omnivorous and planktivorous fishes. The contamination factors (CF), pollution load index (PLI), and polymeric hazard index (PHI) were high and associated with untreated industrial and municipal wastewater sources. The estimated daily intake (EDI) of MPs for adults and children indicates significant health risks. The study improves our comprehension of MPs contamination, providing a significant reference for the appropriate governance, tracking, and reducing pollutants in marine animals in coastal waters.