Work

Weathering increases the acute toxicity of plastic pellets leachates to sea-urchin larvae—a case study with environmental samples

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Microplastics, particles under 5 mm, pervade aquatic environments, notably in Tarragona's coastal region (NE Iberian Peninsula), hosting a major plastic production complex. To investigate weathering and yellowness impact on plastic pellets toxicity, sea-urchin embryo tests were conducted with pellets from three locations-near the source and at increasing distances. Strikingly, distant samples showed toxicity to invertebrate early stages, contrasting with innocuous results near the production site. Follow-up experiments highlighted the significance of weathering and yellowing in elevated pellet toxicity, with more weathered and colored pellets exhibiting toxicity. This research underscores the overlooked realm of plastic leachate impact on marine organisms while proposes that prolonged exposure of plastic pellets in the environment may lead to toxicity. Despite shedding light on potential chemical sorption as a toxicity source, further investigations are imperative to comprehend weathering, yellowing, and chemical accumulation in plastic particles.

Source: Scientific Reports

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-60886-x

Authors: Michele Ferrari, Filipe Laranjeiro, Marta Sugrañes, Jordi Oliva, Ricardo Beiras

Institution: Universidade de Vigo

Language: English

Topic: Microplastics and Plastic Pollution

Subfield: Pollution

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Life below water, Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,590