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Spatial occurrence and effects of microplastic ingestion on the deep-water shrimp Aristeus antennatus
Summary
Researchers found that 39% of deep-water shrimp (Aristeus antennatus) sampled across the Mediterranean contained microplastics in their stomachs, with ingestion rates reaching 100% near Barcelona, and that microfibers were likely retained long-term due to stomach morphology — though no measurable effects on the shrimps' physical condition were detected.
Microplastic (MP) ingestion has been reported in a wide variety of organisms, however, its spatial occurrence and effects on wild populations remain quite unknown. The present study targets an economically and ecologically key species in the Mediterranean Sea, the shrimp Aristeus antennatus. 39.2% of the individuals sampled had MP in their stomachs, albeit in areas close to Barcelona city the percentage reached values of 100%. Overall, MP ingestion was confirmed in a wide spatial and depth (630-1870 m) range, pointing out the great dispersion of this pollutant. The benthophagous diet and close relationship with the sea bottom of A. antennatus might enhance MP exposure and ultimately lead to accidental ingestion. Detailed analysis of shrimps' diet revealed that individuals with MP had a higher presence of endobenthic prey. Microplastic fibers are probably retained for long periods due to stomach's morphology, but no negative effects on shrimp's biological condition were observed.