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Spatial distribution of microplastics in Persian Gulf marine environments
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A spatial survey of microplastics in Persian Gulf marine sediments found widespread contamination, with concentrations varying by location and depth. The study adds to evidence that the Gulf's semi-enclosed, heavily trafficked waters are a significant repository for microplastic pollution.
Microplastics (MPs) are recognized as a significant environmental threat within marine ecosystems. This study examines the spatial distribution of microplastics in seawater, sediments, and fish from the Persian Gulf. A total of 24 seawater samples, 24 sediment samples, and 40 specimens of Pennahia anea were collected from eight locations. Samples were digested, and MPs were filtered, counted, and analyzed using a stereo microscope, Raman spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDX). The results revealed the presence of microplastics across all sample types. The total abundance of MPs in seawater ranged from 3 to 15 items/l, in sediments from 10 to 35 items/kg, and in fish from 4 to 18 items/10 g. The study identified a robust positive correlation between microplastic contamination in seawater and fish (r = 0.932, p = 0.001). Similarly, a strong positive correlation was observed between sediment and fish contamination (r = 0.730, p = 0.040). In seawater, sediment, and fish samples, microplastics were predominantly fibers, constituting 98.31%, 100%, and 87.5% of the total microplastic content, respectively. These fibers measured ≤ 250 μm in length, with black being the most prevalent colors. The findings highlight that the northern site, Khor Semaili (K1), was a significant MP hotspot. At the same time, areas such as Khor Zangi (K6) and Khor Ghazaleh (K8) exhibited minimal contamination across all matrices. This research highlights the crucial role of spatial analyses in understanding the distribution of microplastics in marine ecosystems.
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The occurrence of microplastic contamination in littoral sediments of the Persian Gulf, Iran
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Researchers surveyed littoral sediments of the Persian Gulf for microplastics, finding plastic particles across all sampling sites with a variety of polymer types. The study provides early baseline contamination data for a region with major petrochemical and industrial activity.
Spatial Distribution of Microplastics in Persian Gulf Marine Environments
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Researchers examined the spatial distribution of microplastics in seawater, sediments, and fish (Pennahia anea) from eight locations across the Persian Gulf, analyzing 24 seawater samples, 24 sediment samples, and 40 fish specimens using stereo microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. The study maps MP contamination patterns across multiple environmental compartments in this semi-enclosed sea.
Exploring the microplastic pollution: Unveiling origins and varieties in coastal sediments and waters of the Bushehr Province, Persian Gulf, Iran
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Researchers conducted a comprehensive survey of microplastic pollution in coastal sediments and waters along the Persian Gulf in Iran. They found microplastics at all sampling sites, with the highest concentrations near petrochemical facilities and urban centers, and fibers being the most common type. The study establishes baseline pollution data for the region and links contamination levels to specific human activities.
Contamination, Identification and Distribution of Microplastic in Sediments, Surface Seawater and Four Species of Fish on the Northern Shores of the Persian Gulf, south of Iran
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This study investigated microplastic contamination across sediments, surface waters, and organisms in a coastal or freshwater system. Researchers identified a range of polymer types and particle shapes, with results indicating widespread distribution throughout the sampled environment.
Abundances and characteristics of microplastics in core sediments of the Persian Gulf coast, Iran
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Researchers sampled coastal sediments in Iran's Persian Gulf and found microplastics — including polystyrene, polyethylene, and PVC — at all six sites and at every depth down to 30 cm, averaging nearly 118 particles per kilogram of dry sediment. Fibers and fragments dominated, pointing to widespread plastic contamination from local waste mismanagement in this tidal ecosystem.
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