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Spatial distribution of microplastics in sandy beach and inshore-offshore sediments of the southern Caspian Sea
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This study documented microplastic distribution in both nearshore and offshore sediments of the southern Caspian Sea, finding that offshore areas also contain microplastics and that currents and wind patterns influence their spatial distribution.
The occurrence of microplastics (MPs) in nearshore zones of the southern Caspian coasts is well documented; however, no data are available on MP occurrence in offshore sediments. In this study, six sandy beach stations and 18 inshore-offshore stations (six transects) were surveyed. MPs were detected in all sediment samples. The mean abundances of MPs in the beach and inshore-offshore stations were 196.67 ± 11.58 and 103.15 ± 7.21 MPs/kg, respectively. Fibers constituted the most common shape of MPs. Polystyrene (PS) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) were the major polymer types found in the beach and inshore-offshore sediments, respectively. In most transects, negative MP gradients were observed from nearshore to offshore, which showed that coastal fishing, tourism, and rivers were the main sources of MPs in this area. These results will improve our understanding on MPs pollution in the marine ecosystem. We recommend further MP studies in different parts of the Caspian Sea to develop appropriate management programs.
More Papers Like This
Microplastic pollution in inshore and offshore surface waters of the southern Caspian Sea
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This first comprehensive survey of microplastics in both inshore and offshore surface waters of the southern Caspian Sea found microplastics throughout the basin, with higher concentrations near the coast and in river outflow zones.
Microplastics in Sediments of Southwest Caspian Sea: Characteristics, Distribution and Seasonal Variability
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This study monitored microplastic contamination in Caspian Sea sediments across four seasons, finding plastic particles present at all times and locations with an average of nearly 400 particles per kilogram of sediment. Seasonal variation in microplastic abundance was detected, likely linked to wind and current patterns that affect particle transport and deposition.
Spatial Heterogeneity of Microplastic Contamination in Coastal Surface Waters: A Case Study of 21 Stations in the Southern Caspian Sea, Iran.
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Researchers tested coastal seawater at 21 sites along Iran's southern Caspian Sea coast and found microplastics at every location, with levels dropping farther from shore. Mazandaran province, near heavy tourism and urban areas, had the highest contamination, and most particles were fibers made of polyethylene or polypropylene, materials common in packaging and fishing gear.
Microplastic particles in sediments and waters, south of Caspian Sea: Frequency, distribution, characteristics, and chemical composition
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Researchers assessed microplastic occurrence in coastal sediments and surface waters along the southern Caspian Sea coast in Iran, finding mean concentrations of 15 items/kg in sediments and 710 items/m3 in coastal water. Fibers dominated at 97% of all MPs in both media and were predominantly black-colored, with smaller particles more prevalent in water than sediments.
Distribution and Characterization of Microplastics in Surface Waters and the Southern Caspian Sea Coasts Sediments
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Researchers investigated the distribution and characteristics of microplastics in surface waters and coastal sediments of the southern Caspian Sea across eight sampling stations, documenting concentrations and polymer types in the world's largest enclosed aquatic ecosystem.
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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.