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First record of microplastics found in shark mermaid’s purses: a hidden threat to ocean apex predators during embryonic stage
Summary
This study presents the first documented finding of microplastics within the protective egg cases of two oviparous shark species. Researchers quantified microplastic concentrations in mermaid's purses, revealing that embryonic sharks are exposed to plastic pollution during their most vulnerable developmental stage. The findings underscore that microplastic contamination reaches even the earliest life stages of marine apex predators.
The pervasive presence of microplastics in marine ecosystems poses a significant threat to apex predators such as sharks, already vulnerable due to anthropogenic pressures. This study presents the first documented evidence of microplastics within mermaid’s purses, the protective structures nurturing embryonic sharks. Microplastic concentrations were quantified in egg cases from two oviparous shark species, Hasselt’s bamboo shark, Chiloscyllium hasseltii and coral catshark, Atelomycterus marmoratus. The results reveal that all examined egg cases contained microplastics, with significantly higher levels observed in A. marmoratus egg cases (21.42 ± 0.86 particles per egg case) compared to C. hasseltii (16.35 ± 1.82 particles per egg case). Additionally, a positive correlation between microplastic abundance and yolk mass suggests potential implications for embryonic development. Physico-chemical characterization identifies predominance of fibre morphology, dark-coloured microplastics, and rayon polymer type. These findings highlight the urgent need for targeted conservation strategies to mitigate the impacts of microplastic pollution on vulnerable shark populations and marine ecosystems. This study supports informed policies and concerted efforts to safeguard ocean health and preserve the integrity of apex predator populations, emphasizing the interconnectedness of marine ecosystems and the imperative of sustainable stewardship. First documented evidence of microplastics found within shark mermaid’s purses.100% examined shark egg cases contained microplastics.Species-specific differences are observed in microplastic levels within egg cases.Microplastic abundance correlates positively with egg yolk mass.Physico-chemical characterization of microplastics: Fibre, dark colour, rayon dominate. First documented evidence of microplastics found within shark mermaid’s purses. 100% examined shark egg cases contained microplastics. Species-specific differences are observed in microplastic levels within egg cases. Microplastic abundance correlates positively with egg yolk mass. Physico-chemical characterization of microplastics: Fibre, dark colour, rayon dominate.