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Towards robust and repeatable methods for studying interactions between jellyfish and microplastics
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This methodological review examined inconsistent approaches used in published studies of interactions between jellyfish and microplastics, finding that lack of standardized protocols makes cross-study comparisons difficult. Jellyfish are considered particularly susceptible to microplastic ingestion due to their feeding on small suspended particles, yet field sampling and laboratory experimental methods vary widely. The authors recommend standard protocols and call for more environmentally relevant experiments covering greater species diversity and different life history stages.
Studies of microplastics are increasing exponentially and standard protocols are only beginning to be established. Jellyfish are considered susceptible to ingesting microplastics because they feed on small, suspended particles. Inconsistent approaches used to study interactions between jellyfish and microplastics, however, make comparisons among studies difficult. Here we review aspects of the methods used to sample jellyfish in the field and experimental approaches used in the laboratory to study interactions between jellyfish and microplastics, recommend some standard protocols and identify areas for further research. We highlight the need for experiments to be environmentally relevant, to study a greater diversity of species and to study different life history stages.
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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.