We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Microplastic contamination in surface waters of the Küçükçekmece Lagoon, Marmara Sea (Turkey): Sources and areal distribution
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers found mean microplastic abundances of 33 particles per litre in surface waters of the Kuçukçekmece Lagoon in the Marmara Sea, higher than in previous regional studies, with blue-coloured fragment particles dominating and the highest concentrations recorded in autumn. The study linked spatial and seasonal distribution patterns to freshwater inputs, urban discharge, and differences in fresh and saltwater densities.
The distribution of freshwater and marine microplastics (MPs) varies due to the difference in fresh and seawater densities and MP sources. This study aims to investigate the abundance of MPs and their possible sources in surface waters of different ecosystems, such as sea, lagoon, and lake. We classified MPs in terms of their color and type and established the relationship between the MPs in surface waters with different characteristics. The mean MP abundance (33 particles L) detected herein was higher than that in the previously conducted studies. Fragment particles (37.95%) were determined to be the dominant MP type, and the predominant MP color was blue (75.28%). As for the seasonal MP distribution, its highest content (48.03 particles L) was observed in autumn, unlike that reported by other studies. The findings of this study reveal the effects of wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) discharge and current flow on the MP distribution in the study area. This study aims to provide representative data on the MP abundance and distribution, as well as MP-affecting parameters for similar aquatic areas in other parts of the world.
More Papers Like This
First report of occurrence, distribution, and composition of microplastics in surface waters of the Sea of Marmara, Turkey
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers reported the first characterization of microplastic occurrence, distribution, and polymer composition in surface waters of the Sea of Marmara, Turkey, finding widespread contamination and identifying the types of plastics present in this heavily trafficked and enclosed marine system.
Spatial Dynamics and Ecological Risk Assessment of Microplastics in Littoral Sediments of the Sea of Marmara, Türkiye
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers conducted the first comprehensive survey of microplastic pollution in shoreline sediments across the entire Sea of Marmara and Canakkale Strait in Turkey. The study found microplastic abundances ranging from 199 to 1,286 items per kilogram, dominated by fibers and fragments, with polyethylene as the most common polymer type and blue as the most prevalent color.
Spatio-temporal distribution of microplastic pollution in surface sediments along the coastal areas of Istanbul, Turkey
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers sampled microplastic (MP) pollution across 43 stations in Istanbul's Marmara Sea and Bosphorus over four seasons, finding strong seasonal variation — summer concentrations were roughly five times higher than winter levels. River mouths in the Golden Horn and coastal discharge points were the worst hotspots, underscoring how dense urban activity drives MP contamination in semi-enclosed coastal waters.
Microplastic Abundance in the Mouths of Rivers and Streams Reaching the Marmara Sea and the Bosphorus
AI summary Read the abstract
This study measured microplastic distribution in water and sediment at the mouths of nine streams entering the Marmara Sea and the Bosphorus in Turkey. It characterized microplastic abundance, type, size, and color across both surface water and deep sediment samples.
Microplastic Occurrences in Sediments Collected from Marmara Sea-Istanbul, Turkey
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers surveyed sediments in the Marmara Sea near Istanbul and found widespread microplastic contamination, with fibers being the most common type. The study adds to growing evidence of microplastic pollution in Turkish waters and highlights the Marmara Sea as a regional hotspot given its geography and population density.
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.