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Quantifying microplastics in fishes: The first case study contrasting the perspective of untrained and experienced researchers
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Researchers compared microplastic counts in fish intestines by trained experts versus untrained students, finding students significantly overestimated microplastic abundance and diversity, highlighting the need for proper training in citizen science microplastics research.
Microplastic studies hold a low explored potential for citizen science and environmental education, but methodological issues challenge data produced by non-specialists. We compared microplastic abundance and diversity in the red tilapia Oreochromis niloticus recovered by untrained students with those recovered by researchers that have experience of three years studying the incorporation of this pollutant by aquatic organisms. Seven students dissected 80 specimens and performed digestion of digestive tract in hydrogen peroxide. The solution was filtered and inspected under a stereomicroscope by the students and by two expert researchers. A control treatment consisted of 80 samples handled only by experts. The students overestimated the abundance of fibers and fragments. Striking differences in abundance and richness of microplastics were verified between the fish dissected by students and by expert researchers. Therefore, citizen science projects involving the uptake of microplastics by fish should provide training until a satisfactory level of expertise is reached.
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Can we investigate microplastic pollution with school students? Experiences from eight years of citizen science research
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Researchers shared eight years of experience from the Plastic Pirates citizen science program involving over 24,000 school students and teachers in microplastic research across Germany, addressing challenges of contamination prevention, particle size, and sample processing in non-laboratory settings. The study evaluated the feasibility and scientific validity of engaging young citizen scientists in standardized riverine microplastic monitoring.
Sampling, Isolating and Identifying Microplastics Ingested by Fish and Invertebrates *
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This methodological review critically evaluated sampling, isolation, and identification techniques for microplastics ingested by fish and invertebrates, identifying common sources of error including contamination during processing, particle loss, and misidentification — and recommending standardized protocols.
Review of "Are We Underestimating Microplastic Contamination in Aquatic Environments?"
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This entry describes a peer review record-keeping service for a study on whether current methods systematically underestimate how much microplastic contamination exists in aquatic environments — a concern that would mean pollution levels are worse than currently reported.
Making citizen science count: Best practices and challenges of citizen science projects on plastics in aquatic environments
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This paper reviews best practices and challenges for citizen science projects focused on plastic pollution in aquatic environments, finding that while citizen science can effectively gather large-scale data and raise public awareness, data quality and consistency remain significant challenges.
Can we investigate microplastic pollution with school students? Experiences from eight years of citizen science research
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Researchers reported on eight years of citizen science microplastic research conducted with school students through the Plastic Pirates program, sharing methodological experiences and lessons learned from involving more than 24,000 participants across Germany and other European countries in rigorous environmental monitoring.
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When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.