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Tidal variability and microplastics distribution: source analysis in Dongshan Bay beach sediments, South China
Summary
A four-site study of Dongshan Bay beach sediments in South China found microplastic concentrations ranging from 7.4 to 283.1 items/kg, with tidal dynamics strongly influencing distribution — higher loads near estuaries at high tide and coastal accumulation at low tide — and statistical analysis pointing to fishing and packaging industries as the dominant sources. Tidal forcing emerges as a key control on microplastic redistribution in coastal sediments, complicating source attribution and remediation planning for fishery-intensive coastlines.
Microplastic (MP) contamination is becoming a major worldwide concern, affecting terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. This study investigated the source, distribution, and abundance of MPs in sediments from Dongshan Bay, Fujian, South China, emphasizing particularly the coastline region’s susceptibility to tidal impacts in four study sites. The concentrations of MPs in the sediments in the four sites were high from 7.4 to 283.1 items/kg (dry weight). There were notable differences in abundance between the locations and tide levels. Tides influenced the distribution of MPs greatly; however, the estuary areas showed greater MPs abundance during high tide, due possibly to enhanced water turbulence and riverine inputs. Low tide indicated higher concentrations in coastal locations owing to accumulation. Popular varieties, including nylon, polypropylene, and polyethylene, were identified by polymer research, pointing to the origins from fishing, packaging, and mariculture industries. Potential sources were determined using the PCA-K-means statistical analysis, by linking the origins of MPs to domestic activities, fishing, mariculturing, shipping, and packing. Fishing and packing were shown in the Sankey diagram as the two main sources, but their effects varied with research locations and tidal regimes. This study clarified the intricate dynamics of MPs pollution, highlighting the impact of tides on its dispersal and the variety of sources that contribute to this widespread environmental problem in coastal areas.