Consequences of anthropogenic activities and beach dynamics on vertical distribution of microplastics in the mid-intertidal sediments of Donghai Island, China
2022
Mayakrishnan Machendiranathan | Yaoqiang Hu | WeiCong Chen | Ao Tan | Lingling Xie | Fajin Chen | Guangzhe Jin | Rajamohanan Pillai Ranith | Lakshmanan Senthilnathan
Microplastic accumulation and resulting degradation are significant threats to the coastal ecosystems around the world. Baseline information on microplastics and their sources is of great importance for a permanent waste management system. The present study focused on the vertical distribution and characteristics of microplastics in the mid-intertidal zone of Donghai Island, China. At eight locations, sediment samples were collected from surface to a depth of 30 cm at intervals of 5 cm. Overall, we found five different polymer types, and vertical distributions of microplastics varied ranging from 0 to 200 particles/kg, with the mean value of 32.92±41.35 particles/kg. Sediment samples collected from all stations contained microplastics with high contribution of fibres. Intruded microplastic materials recorded in sediment samples at a depth of 30 cm demonstrate that microplastics may be present at depths greater than 30 cm. Scanning electron microscopy–energy dispersive X-ray (SEM–EDAX) analysis revealed presence of common elements in the microplastics surface (silicon, aluminium, magnesium, copper, and calcium). Based on the observations and results from this study, we suggest implementing a robust microplastic removal management program in Donghai Island to avoid serious microplastic intrusion effects on benthos and environmental contamination. HIGHLIGHTS We focus on characteristics of microplastics in the mid-intertidal zone of Donghai Island, China.; Microplastics may be present at depths greater than 30 cm.; The vertical intrusion of microplastics is majorly from anthropogenic interactions and beach dynamics.; SEM-EDAX analysis revealed the presence of common elements in the microplastics surface (Mg, Al, Si, Ca, and Cu).;
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