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The assessment of the bioaccumulation of microplastics in key fish species from the Bulgarian aquatory of the Black Sea
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Researchers examined five commercially important fish species from the Bulgarian Black Sea coast and found microplastics in all tissue types studied. The most common particles were polyethylene and PET pellets, with sizes ranging down to 25 micrometers, indicating widespread plastic pollution in this region that could affect both fish populations and the humans who eat them.
One of the main problems of the world's oceans, reported by many scientific studies, is the microplastic pollution. Within the Black Sea, one of the main sources of pollution is the same, which is caused by the diverse anthropogenic activities. The present study demonstrated detailed microplastics contamination of in five fish species important for the commercial fishing (Garfish, Мullet, Knout goby, Pontic shad and Mediterranean horse mackerel). They were collected from the Sozopol area on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. Within each microplastic morphological group, three size classes were recognised: 100–200 µm, 25–100 µm and ≤ 25 µm. Microplastics were found in all studied tissues of the fish, but in varying proportions of pellets, fibres and fragments. Pellets were most frequently isolated, followed by irregularly-shaped fragments and fibres were the least numerous. The bulk of insulated plastics are made of polyethylene (PE) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Our results pointed out serious pollution with plastic particles in the Bulgarian Black Sea aquatory, which, in the future, may seriously affect the health of the fish population and also human health.
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The Assessment of the Bioaccumulation of Microplastics in Key Fish Species from the Bulgarian Aquatory of the Black Sea
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Researchers found microplastics in the soft tissues of five commercially important Black Sea fish species collected off the Bulgarian coast, with polyethylene and polyethylene terephthalate as the dominant polymer types. Pellets were the most common particle shape, found across all specimens regardless of species. The results indicate significant microplastic contamination in a major regional seafood source, raising concerns about the potential for plastics to move up the food chain and reach people who consume these fish.
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Scientists found microplastic particles, mostly common plastics like polyethylene and polypropylene, in the stomachs, intestines, and gills of five popular fish species from the Black Sea, including anchovy and red mullet. Since these are fish people regularly eat, the findings raise concerns about how much plastic pollution may be making its way into our food and bodies.
Plastic Occurrence in Commercial Fish Species of the Black Sea
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Researchers examined plastic ingestion in seven commercial fish species from the Black Sea and found plastics in the gastrointestinal tracts of 29% of all individuals tested. Fibres were the most common type of plastic found, accounting for nearly 69% of all particles, with 93% being microplastics smaller than 5 mm. The study identified polypropylene, polyester, and acrylic as the most prevalent polymer types, indicating widespread microplastic contamination in Black Sea commercial fisheries.
Microplastics in commercial fish and their habitats in the important fishing ground of the Black Sea: Characteristic, concentration, and risk assessment
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Researchers analyzed microplastic contamination in six commercial fish species from the Black Sea and found microplastics in all environmental areas studied, including surface water, the water column, sediments, and fish. Fibers were the most common type of microplastic found, and bottom-dwelling fish had higher contamination levels than fish living closer to the surface. Since these are commonly eaten fish species, the findings are relevant to human dietary exposure to microplastics.
Determination of Microplastic Pollution in Commercial Fish in the Middle Black Sea (Samsun), Türkiye
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Researchers detected microplastics in six commercially important fish species from the Middle Black Sea Region, including rainbow trout, sea bass, sea bream, red mullet, horse mackerel, and whiting. MPs were found in multiple species, with polymer type and shape varying by species and habitat, reflecting differences in feeding behavior and habitat exposure.
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