Researchers have discovered microplastics for the first time in the blood of whales, fish and sharks.
The study – by the Royal Society and the University of Portsmouth – raises concerns over the “risk to human health from plastics.”
“We have now found microplastics in the blood of the most species of marine mammals and sharks,” said Professor Claire Palmer, of the University of Portsmouth’s Institute of Aquaculture and Environment.
“Microplastics can harm marine life by damaging the gut lining, causing lacerations, and by physically blocking the stomachs and intestinal tracts.
“I’m concerned about the potential impacts on wild and farmed fish stocks.”
The scientists tested blood samples of 64 different species of marine animals, including whales, dolphins, seals, skates, sharks, cod, salmon and plaice, from all over the world.
They also analysed samples of seawater and sediment.
Although the number of samples was relatively low, Professor Palmer said: “In those few species where we could measure, the levels of microplastics were all very similar, and most of the animals had microplastics in their blood.
“This is the first study to find evidence of microplastics in marine mammals and it shows that it’s a widespread problem.”
The research was funded by the EU-FP7 project “MARINEGRIMS”, which aims to find out more about plastic pollution in the marine environment.
The scientists also looked for the presence of a microplastic “bio-cocktail” which is a mix of cells, microorganisms, and some enzymes that can break down plastic.
They found that the microorganisms within the bio-cocktail were actually more abundant than the microplastics.
“While the microplastics can be harmful, our findings suggest that these microplastic particles may not be as large a problem as previously thought,” said Professor Palmer.
“The combination of microplastic and the bio-cocktail could provide a solution for dealing with the challenge of microplastic particles,” said Professor Palmer.
Microplastics are the by-products of industrial processes, and are found in many plastic products, including sunscreens and cosmetics.
Microplastics are also released in sea water through the
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