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Microplastics in marine invertebrates from the Red Sea Coast of Egypt: Abundance, composition, and risks
Summary
This is the first study to document microplastics in marine invertebrates along Egypt's Red Sea coast, examining 11 species of clams, snails, sea urchins, and sea cucumbers. Every animal sampled contained microplastics, with filter-feeding bivalves showing the highest concentrations per gram of tissue. The plastics identified were linked to tourism-related sources, highlighting how coastal recreation contributes to wildlife contamination.
This study marked the first exploration of microplastics in marine invertebrates in the Red Sea Coast of Egypt. 110 individuals from 11 different species, including Bivalvia, Gastropoda, Echinoidea, and Holothuroidrea, were collected near a popular tourist destination. The average concentrations of microplastics varied among species, ranging from 8.2 to 136.5 items per individual or 0.2 to 18.1 items per gram of tissue wet weight, with 100 % occurrence. Bivalves had higher concentrations per gram of tissue compared to sediment dwellers and grazers, with Brachidontes pharaonis showing the highest levels. Actinopyga crassa, a sea cucumber, displayed the highest abundance per individual due to its large size and behavior. The identified plastic polymers suggested sources associated with tourism and maritime activities. The estimated human exposure to microplastics through bivalve consumption was minimal. Further research is needed to examine microplastics contamination in the Red Sea and its potential impacts on ecosystems and human well-being.
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