We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Microplastics in aquatic species of Anzali wetland: An important freshwater biodiversity hotspot in Iran
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers surveyed microplastic contamination in seven aquatic species from Anzali Wetland in Iran, a globally recognized biodiversity hotspot. They found microplastics in the digestive tracts, gills, and skin of all species examined, with herbivorous bottom-dwelling fish showing the highest contamination levels. The findings raise concerns about the widespread penetration of microplastics into freshwater food webs at ecologically sensitive sites.
Coastal wetlands are sensitive ecosystems that give habitat to large number of species. The extent of the impact of microplastic pollution in the aquatic system and humans is not known. In this study, the occurrence of microplastics (MPs) was assessed in 7 aquatic species from the Anzali Wetland (40 fish and 15 shrimp specimens), a listed wetland on the Montreux record. Specifically, the tissues analyzed were gastrointestinal (GI) tract, gills, skin, and muscles. The total frequency of MPs (all detected MPs in the GI tract, gill and skin samples) varied from 5.2 ± 4.2 MPs/specimen for Cobitis saniae to 20.8 ± 6.7 MPs/specimen for Abramis brama. Among all tissues studied, the GI tract of the Chelon saliens, a herbivorous demersal species, had the greatest level of MPs (13.6 ± 10 MPs/specimen). Significant differences (p < 0.05) were found between the abundance of MPs in different species, tissues, living domains and feeding habit types. The findings support that fish may uptake MPs through adherence in gills (respiration) in addition to ingestion. White/transparent and black/grey polyamide (PA) fibers were the most common type of MP which may be originated from municipal wastewater and intensive fishing activities. About 34% of the MPs were in the range of 250 μm-500 μm, and those >100 μm were not detected in muscles from the study fish. All species had unhealthy weight according to the Fulton's condition index (K). Positive relationships existed between biometric properties (total length and weight) of species and the total frequency of uptaken MPs, pointing to detrimental impact of MPs in the wetland.
More Papers Like This
Microplastics in surface sediments of a highly urbanized wetland
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers found microplastic contamination throughout the sediments of Anzali Wetland in Iran, with levels highest near a heavily urbanized river outlet and areas of intense tourism and fishing, and fibers comprising 80% of all detected particles.
Characterization of ingested MPs and their relation with growth parameters of endemic and invasive fish from a coastal wetland
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers quantified microplastic ingestion in endemic and invasive fish species from Iran's Anzali Wetland, finding microplastics in gastrointestinal tracts of both species and examining relationships between contamination levels and fish growth parameters.
Microplastic pollution and heavy metal risk assessment in Perca fluviatilis from Anzali wetland: Implications for environmental health and human consumption
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers analyzed heavy metals and microplastics in the tissues of European perch from Anzali Wetland in Iran and found contamination in muscle, liver, and gill samples. Microplastics were present in all fish examined, with fibers being the most common type. The study raises concerns about potential health risks for people who regularly consume fish from this polluted wetland.
Distribution, flux, and risk assessment of microplastics at the Anzali Wetland, Iran, and its tributaries
AI summary Read the abstract
This study mapped microplastic pollution in Anzali Wetland in Iran and its nine tributary rivers, finding contamination throughout the freshwater ecosystem. Microplastic levels were linked to water turbidity and clay content in sediments, with rivers carrying higher concentrations than the wetland itself. Since this internationally protected wetland supports local fisheries and water supplies, the contamination poses potential risks to human health.
Microplastics abundance, distribution and composition in surface waters, sediments and fish species from Amir˗Kalayeh Wetland, Northern Iran
AI summary Read the abstract
This study examined microplastic pollution in surface waters, sediments, and fish species from Amir-Kalayeh Wetland in Northern Iran. Researchers found microplastics across all sampled compartments, with varying abundance and composition, highlighting that wetland ecosystems are also susceptible to widespread microplastic contamination.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.