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Microplastic sampling techniques in freshwaters and sediments: a review
Summary
This review analyzed 150 studies on microplastic sampling methods in freshwater environments and sediments, identifying the most commonly used tools and techniques. Researchers found that manta trawls are the primary method for surface water sampling, while shovels and grab samplers are most common for sediment collection. The study highlights the need for standardized sampling approaches and better methods to detect the smallest plastic particles in freshwater systems.
Pollution by microplastics is of increasing concern due to their ubiquitous presence in most biological and environmental media, their potential toxicity and their ability to carry other contaminants. Knowledge on microplastics in freshwaters is still in its infancy. Here we reviewed 150 investigations to identify the common methods and tools for sampling microplastics, waters and sediments in freshwater ecosystems. Manta trawls are the main sampling tool for microplastic separation from surface water, whereas shovel, trowel, spade, scoop and spatula are the most frequently used devices in microplastic studies of sediments. Van Veen grab is common for deep sediment sampling. There is a need to develop optimal methods for reducing identification time and effort and to detect smaller-sized plastic particles.