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A systematic review to assess current surface water and sediment microplastic sampling practices in seagrass and mangrove ecosystems
Summary
This systematic review examines how researchers collect and measure microplastic contamination in seagrass beds and mangrove ecosystems. These coastal habitats act as traps for microplastics, and since they also serve as nursery grounds for the fish and shellfish we eat, understanding contamination levels there is important for assessing seafood safety.
Global plastic production is estimated to be 400 million tonnes per annum, with ~ 5.25 trillion fragments floating in our oceans. Microplastics (< 5 mm) have the potential to disproportionately accumulate and become trapped in mangroves and seagrass meadows, creating plastic 'sinks'. This is concerning as these ecosystems are of great ecological and economic importance, with microplastics causing harm to inhabiting flora and fauna. However, accurately measuring microplastic abundance, comparing findings, and determining potential impacts are difficult due to a lack of standardised sampling protocols. Therefore, a systematic literature review was completed to review currently adopted microplastic sampling methods in surface water and sediment in seagrass and mangrove ecosystems. These were compared with recommendations from existing governmental and institutional groups as a first step to standardising methods for future sampling procedures in seagrasses and mangroves.