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Trophic transfer and bioaccumulation of nanoplastics in Coryphaena hippurus (Mahi-mahi) and effect of depuration
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Researchers studied how nanoplastics transfer through the food chain to mahi-mahi fish larvae via contaminated rotifers. The study found significant nanoplastic accumulation primarily in the gut, with some particles translocating to other body parts and persisting even after a depuration period, along with evidence of intestinal tissue damage in the larvae.
Abstract Ocean plastic pollution is a global concern, exacerbated by the distinctive physiochemical characteristics of nanoplastics (NPs), making it crucial to study the impacts on marine animals. While most studies focus on the impacts of waterborne NP exposure, trophic transfer is another key transport mechanism that may also provide insight into the potential transfer of NPs to humans through the food chain. This study investigates polystyrene NP transfer to Coryphaena hippurus (mahi-mahi) larvae, a widely consumed fish and significant marine predator, during the early life stage. Using a two-step food chain, Brachionus plicatilis (rotifers) were exposed to NPs, and subsequently fed to C. hippurus larvae, with exposure durations ranging from 24 to 96 h. Significant NP transfer was observed via the food chain, varying with exposure duration. A depuration study over 72 h, simulating environmental intermittent NP exposure, revealed substantial NP excretion but also notable retention in the larvae. Biodistribution analysis indicated that most NPs accumulated in the gut, with a significant portion remaining post-depuration and some translocating to other body parts. Despite no significant effects on body length and eye diameter during this short study period, histopathological analysis revealed intestinal tissue damage in the larvae. Graphical abstract
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Trophic transfer and bioaccumulation of nanoplastics in Coryphaena hippurus (mahi-mahi) and effect of depuration
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Researchers studied how polystyrene nanoplastics transfer through the food chain to mahi-mahi fish larvae by first exposing rotifers to the particles and then feeding them to the larvae. Significant nanoplastic transfer and accumulation were observed, primarily in the gut, with some particles translocating to areas containing vital organs like the heart and liver. A depuration study showed that while larvae could excrete substantial amounts, notable quantities remained retained, and intestinal tissue damage was observed.
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