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Article ? AI-assigned paper type based on the abstract. Classification may not be perfect — flag errors using the feedback button. Tier 2 ? Original research — experimental, observational, or case-control study. Direct primary evidence. Detection Methods Environmental Sources Marine & Wildlife Sign in to save

Mapping microplastic distribution in maritime corridors: a continuous sampling approach

Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) 2024
Alvise Vianello, Laura Simon-Sánchez, Magdalena Lewandowska, Magdalena Lewandowska, Jeanette Lykkemark, Asbjørn H. Nielsen, Alessio Gomiero, Jes Vollertsen

Summary

Researchers conducted continuous underway microplastic sampling over 120 nautical miles along the maritime corridor of the Gulf of Panama, a high-traffic area near the Panama Canal, to map surface water microplastic distribution more comprehensively than stationary sampling allows. The approach revealed heterogeneous accumulation patches influenced by currents and wind, demonstrating the value of continuous sampling for characterizing microplastic distribution in shipping corridors.

Microplastics (MPs) are pervasive in marine environments and originate from both land-based and offshore sources. These pollutants are unevenly distributed in surface waters, forming accumulation patches influenced by currents and wind. Stationary sampling provides discontinuous snapshots of MP contamination. Conversely, continuous underway sampling covers large areas, maximizing research vessel time and offering a comprehensive assessment of microplastic distribution in surface waters. Here, we conducted continuous sampling over 120 nautical miles, following the maritime highway corridor in the Gulf of Panama, a critical area due to its position off the Panama Canal, which handles nearly 5 Also see: https://micro2024.sciencesconf.org/559659/document

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