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Microplastics transport in a low-inflow estuary at the entrance of the Gulf of California
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This study characterized microplastic accumulation and transport pathways in the Estero de Urias lagoon at the entrance of the Gulf of California, finding that tidal dynamics and riverine inputs govern local microplastic distribution in this low-inflow coastal estuary.
Microplastics (MPs) are recognized as a global emergent pollution impact, which can affect all food chains. Estimating MPs transport pathways in coastal ecosystems is needed to assess their likely effects. Here, we studied MPs accumulation and transport pathways in the Estero de Urias lagoon system (low-inflow estuary) using field data and a 3D particle model. Field results showed that the MPs present similar abundances throughout the study area during the dry and rainy seasons. Model simulations indicated that i) morphology and tidal currents caused the MPs discharged in the lagoon to remain inside, and ii) wind-induced currents caused the MPs in the coastal area to be transported to the southwest. These transport processes may be responsible for homogenizing MPs concentrations through the studied area. In addition, model simulations suggested that EUL-dense waters can export MPs from the coastal area to the sea bottom.
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Microplastics dynamics under low freshwater discharge conditions in the Guadalquivir estuary
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Researchers conducted a microplastic monitoring programme in the Guadalquivir Estuary (southern Spain) under low freshwater discharge conditions, finding that tidal forcing and dam regulation interact to control MP distribution in the water column, with the estuary acting as a retention zone for MP pollution under reduced river flow.
Assessing meso-, micro-, and nanoplastic pollution in Los Angeles County estuaries
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Researchers assessed meso-, micro-, and nanoplastic pollution levels in Los Angeles County estuaries, quantifying plastic loads by size class and polymer type and identifying urban stormwater as the dominant input pathway.
Monitoring mesoplastic concentrations in estuarine waters: A case study in the River Guadalquivir (Southern Spain)
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Researchers monitored mesoplastic concentrations in the waters of the Guadalquivir River estuary in southern Spain, assessing how tidal dynamics and river flow affect plastic transport and retention. The study found that estuaries act as transitional zones where plastic residence time and transport behavior are controlled by complex hydrodynamic processes.
Spatial distribution of microplastics in the Gulf of Cadiz as a function of their density: A Lagrangian modelling approach
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Researchers coupled a Lagrangian transport model to a high-resolution hydrodynamic model to analyze microplastic distribution in the Gulf of Cadiz, finding that low-density plastics accumulate near estuary sources while high-density particles sink rapidly, with the Guadalquivir and Guadiana estuaries as the dominant input pathways.
Microplastic contamination and fluxes in a touristic area at the SE Gulf of California
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Researchers assessed microplastic contamination in beach sands, surface waters, and sediment traps in the tourist city of Mazatlan, Mexico, finding higher concentrations during the rainy season and in urban areas, with polyethylene and polypropylene fragments being the most abundant types.
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.