We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Role of recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) in the generation and removal of microplastics and additives chemicals
Summary
Researchers investigated the generation and presence of microplastics and additive chemicals within recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) infrastructure by building a reference library of plastic sources and conducting targeted analysis of intake water, recirculating water, sludge, fish, and fish feed. Results identified plastic infrastructure and consumables as potential microplastic sources, though detected levels above 300 µm were low.
The proliferation of microplastics in the environment has seen investigation into sources and mechanisms for their generation. The fisheries and aquaculture sector has been pin-pointed as a contributor to the global burden of plastic, although the proportional representation of activities appear to vary by industry, region, and fisheries intensity. To understand the generation of microplastics within recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) infrastructure, we collected samples of known plastic sources to identify their polymer and additive contents and build a reference library. This was used for targeted analysis when investigating the presence of microplastics and additives within RAS facilities, specifically looking at intake water, recirculating water, sludge, fish, and fish feed. Analysis showed low levels of contaminants but identified several potential sources of microplastics, including plastic infrastructure and consumables. There were low numbers of microplastics ¿300 µm in RAS samples. Comparatively, particle analysis of the smaller size fraction (50-300µm) suggests some degree of microplastic generation within the RAS. Potential sources originating from the RAS infrastructure were identified as the fix bed bioreactor (FBBR) and moving bed bioreactor (MBBR), and biomedia. Initial analysis of fish tissue and stomachs showed low levels of microplastic. Screening for additives identified that several plastic-related chemicals were ubiquitous in RAS recirculating waters, including selected antioxidants and plasticisers. The source and distribution of these chemicals was compound specific. Fewer chemicals were quantified in sludge and fish compared with water. Specific compounds including antioxidants and plasticisers were consistently found in fish. This study has highlighted the need to further investigate the life cycle of microplastics and their associated chemicals from generation, removal and consequential re-introduction to terrestrial and aquatic systems. Also see: https://micro2024.sciencesconf.org/557380/document
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Role of recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) in the generation and removal of microplastics and additives chemicals
Researchers examined recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) infrastructure as a source of microplastics, building a polymer and additive reference library from known plastic components to identify and quantify microplastic generation and removal within aquaculture facility water treatment processes.
Occurrence, distribution and sources of microplastics in typical marine recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) in China: The critical role of RAS operating time and microfilter
This study found microplastics in all parts of fish farming systems in China, including the feed, water, and the fish themselves. Systems that had been running longer accumulated more microplastics, and the plastic types found in fish closely matched those in their feed and water. The findings suggest that farmed fish -- a major protein source -- can be a route of microplastic exposure for people who eat seafood.
Microplastics in aquaculture systems: Occurrence, ecological threats and control strategies
This review summarizes how microplastics contaminate aquaculture systems through fishing gear, feed, and polluted water, and examines their effects on farmed aquatic species. Microplastics accumulate in farmed fish and shellfish, raising concerns about food safety for the millions of people who consume aquaculture products. The authors discuss removal strategies and call for better monitoring to protect both aquaculture sustainability and consumer health.
Microplastics in water, feed and tissues of European seabass reared in a recirculation aquaculture system (RAS)
Researchers investigated microplastic contamination in a recirculating aquaculture system raising European seabass and found plastic particles in the water, fish feed, and fish tissues including gills, gut, and liver. The most common particles were fibers and fragments from polyester and polyethylene. This study shows that even controlled farming environments are not free from microplastic contamination, which has implications for farmed seafood safety.
A review of microplastic pollution in aquaculture: Sources, effects, removal strategies and prospects
This review examines how microplastics contaminate fish farms through environmental inputs and aquaculture equipment, affecting water quality and the health of farmed seafood. Since contaminated aquaculture products are a direct pathway for microplastics to reach the human diet, reducing plastic pollution in fish farming is important for food safety.