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Bioindicators selection in the strategies for monitoring microplastic pollution
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Researchers reviewed strategies for selecting the best 'sentinel' species — from mussels to earthworms — to serve as biological indicators of microplastic and nanoplastic pollution in both aquatic and land environments. Choosing the right species based on behavior, habitat, and exposure pathways is essential for building consistent, comparable monitoring programs that can track plastic pollution over time.
Micro(nano)plastics (MNPs) are pervasive pollutants posing significant environmental and health risks. Selecting appropriate sentinel species to assess MNPs in terrestrial and aquatic environments involves considering factors such as species behavior, habitat, exposure pathways, and the feasibility of sampling. For these reasons, it was imperative to launch a virtual special issue (VSI) in Ecological Indicators. This editorial summarizes the contributions submitted to the VSI, which invited research on bioindicators of MNPs, including sampling protocols, monitoring strategies, and analytical methods, to advance our understanding and management of plastic pollution. The VSI received a total of 12 contributions from four countries, with a significant majority originating from Italy. To present the contributions, we have organized the sections into original articles and reviews. The original articles are further divided into sections on the occurrence of MNPs in biotic and abiotic compartments, the selection of bioindicators, and the effects and risk assessment of MPs. The reviews are categorized based on their focus on aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Future ecotoxicology studies should select bioindicators based on exposure to MNPs, conservation status, ecological roles, and human consumption.
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Sentinel species selection for monitoring microplastic pollution: A review on one health approach
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This review evaluates how sentinel species, organisms used as biological indicators, can be selected to monitor microplastic pollution across different environments using a One Health approach that connects ecosystem, animal, and human health. Researchers assessed various candidate species including mussels, fish, and birds based on their ability to accumulate and reflect microplastic contamination. The study provides a framework for choosing the most informative species to track plastic pollution's impact across interconnected ecosystems.
Tracing Microplastic Pollution Through Animals: A Narrative Review of Bioindicator Approaches
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This review evaluates animals that have been proposed as bioindicators for monitoring microplastic pollution across aquatic, terrestrial, and aerial environments. Researchers found that bivalves like clams and mussels are among the most suitable indicators due to their wide distribution, effective microplastic retention, and well-established analytical methods. The study provides a framework for selecting appropriate sentinel species based on ecological, physiological, and methodological criteria.
The need for a sentinel species: considerations towards regional bioindicators
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Researchers examined the case for establishing sentinel species as regional bioindicators for microplastic monitoring, evaluating candidate organisms including fish and shellfish for their suitability based on geographic range, abundance, ecological relevance, and ability to reflect the bioavailable fraction of marine litter.
The need for a sentinel species: considerations towards regional bioindicators
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Researchers examined the need for sentinel bioindicator species to generate robust monitoring data for marine litter and microplastics, evaluating candidate species including fish and shellfish based on criteria such as geographic range, abundance, and economic importance. The study proposed a framework for selecting effective regional bioindicators to inform ecotoxicological models and support emerging plastic pollution policy.
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