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Microplastics detected in haemolymph of the Sydney rock oyster Saccostrea glomerata
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Tiny microplastics (smaller than 2 micrometers) were found in the blood-like fluid of Sydney rock oysters, suggesting they can move beyond the gut and into body tissues via the immune system. This raises concerns for both the marine food chain and human health, given that oysters are widely consumed seafood.
Plastic waste is ubiquitous in marine environments. Despite the sheer volume of plastic waste, it remains relatively unknown how marine invertebrates will interact with microplastics (plastic <1 mm). Microplastics (<2 μm) were ingested by the economically and ecologically significant Sydney rock oyster Saccostrea glomerata and translocated to the haemolymph, perhaps via phagocytosis. The presence of microplastics in the haemolymph indicates that filter feeding S. glomerata can ingest and accumulate microplastics which are prevalent in the environment. This research shows microplastics can enter marine molluscs and highlights the need to monitor microplastics in the marine environment and aquaculture to safeguard the seafood industry.
More Papers Like This
Microplastics, trace and major elements in Sydney rock oyster (Saccostrea glomerata) from the Moreton Bay, Queensland
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This thesis investigated microplastics, trace metals, and major elements in Sydney Rock Oysters from Moreton Bay, Queensland. Microplastics were found in oyster tissues, raising concerns about human exposure to both plastic particles and any associated contaminants when consuming oysters.
New polymer antioxidant from Cytec targets demanding conditions
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Sydney rock oysters were exposed to microplastics smaller than 2 micrometers and were found to ingest and translocate them to their haemolymph (blood equivalent), possibly via phagocytosis. This finding raises concerns about the internal distribution of the smallest microplastic particles within the tissues of filter-feeding marine invertebrates.
Tissue-specific accumulation and integrated toxicological responses of the Pacific oyster, Crassostrea gigas, to chronic polyethylene microplastic exposure: An empirical toxicokinetic interpretation
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Scientists found that oysters exposed to microplastics for weeks build up the most plastic in their digestive glands, and this buildup was linked to stress hormones, liver-related enzymes, and immune changes. Since oysters are widely eaten, this suggests microplastic pollution could affect the health and safety of seafood, though more research is needed to know what this means for humans.
Microplastic contamination in filter-feeding oyster Saccostrea cuccullata: Novel insights in a marine ecosystem
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Researchers examined microplastic contamination in the filter-feeding oyster Saccostrea cuccullata collected from five coastal sites. They found microplastics present in all oyster specimens, with fibers and fragments being the most common types detected. The study highlights how filter-feeding shellfish can accumulate microplastics from surrounding waters, raising concerns about contamination in marine food chains.
Prevalence and Distribution of Microplastics in Oysters from the Mississippi Sound
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Scientists measured microplastic levels in oysters from ten locations across the Mississippi Sound along the Gulf Coast. They found microplastics in every sample, with concentrations ranging from about 5 to 31 particles per gram of oyster tissue, and plastic particles were present in all tissue types examined. Since oysters are filter feeders consumed by both wildlife and people, the findings point to microplastics as a concern for both ecosystem and food safety.
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.